President Biden and Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador reinforced their commitment to collaborate on key issues during their meeting in San Francisco on Friday. Addressing migration and combating fentanyl trafficking were the focal points of their discussion, as these topics have been used as lines of criticism by 2024 Republican presidential candidates against the Biden administration.

While the two leaders have experienced public disagreements in the past, their meeting in San Francisco was marked by mutual praise. Biden and López Obrador pledged to work together on these pressing issues, without announcing major new initiatives.

López Obrador emphasized Mexico's dedication to combatting drug trafficking and the entrance of fentanyl and other chemical precursors into the United States. He acknowledged the devastating impact of these drugs on American youth and expressed Mexico's full awareness of the issue. Biden referenced his recent conversation with China's President Xi Jinping on combating fentanyl trafficking, hinting at a potential agreement reached between the two leaders.

Additionally, López Obrador expressed gratitude for Biden's administration's efforts in addressing migration. He highlighted the need for further progress in tackling the migratory phenomenon and stressed the importance of joint coordination between the two countries.

Both leaders shared words of admiration for each other, with Biden referring to López Obrador as a "good man" and an "extraordinary president," while López Obrador praised Biden as an exceptional partner.

Republicans have consistently linked Biden's policies to the surge in migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border and the rise of illicit drugs, such as fentanyl, in the United States. In 2022, fatal drug overdoses remained near a record high. Moreover, the number of migrants crossing the border reached a historic peak in August, prompting concerns among cities struggling to accommodate the growing migrant populations.

Biden's handling of the migration issue is anticipated to be a major challenge he will face in the coming years. A September Washington Post-ABC News poll revealed that only 23 percent of respondents approved of Biden's handling of the immigration situation at the U.S.-Mexico border, while 62 percent expressed disapproval. These numbers reflect a decline in approval since February.

Former President Donald Trump plans to visit the U.S.-Mexico border in South Texas this weekend, seeking to capitalize on the public's dissatisfaction with Biden's handling of the immigration issue. Trump and Texas Governor Greg Abbott will serve meals to members of Operation Lone Star, a state-led border crackdown that has faced legal battles.

The visit to the Rio Grande Valley presents an opportunity for Republicans to connect with Latino voters in the region. While the state's GOP presidential primary is scheduled for March, a victory for Trump could significantly boost his delegate count. Although Biden came closer to winning Texas in 2020 than any previous Democratic presidential candidate, the state's shifting demographics make it a prime target for Republicans in future elections.