In the fast-paced world of business, negotiation is the cornerstone of success. It's a principle that has built empires, forged alliances, and driven economic prosperity. However, as we look at the current state of affairs in American politics, it's evident that the art of negotiation is sorely lacking. The ongoing crisis on our southern border serves as a glaring example of how both political parties are failing in this crucial aspect of governance.

A few weeks ago, I proposed a Biden-Trump Tequila Summit, sponsored by the U.S. Hispanic Business Council (USHBC) with the aim of setting politics aside and addressing the pressing issues at the border. I commend President Biden for echoing this sentiment in his State of the Union address, inviting former President Trump to collaborate on finding solutions, rather than continuing the blame game. It was a glimmer of hope in an otherwise tumultuous political landscape.

Having recently moderated a bipartisan town hall at the border, I witnessed firsthand the crisis unfolding and its detrimental impacts not only on our educational, medical, judicial and legal systems, but our economy as well. President Biden's subsequent visit to the border and his national call for both parties to unite in finding a solution were steps in the right direction. However, this optimism was short-lived.

In the aftermath of the border bill's demise, President Biden justifiably admonished both Republicans and former President Trump. Despite this, he extended an olive branch, urging everyone to come together and work towards a resolution. Regrettably, this is where the situation took a detour, highlighting just how out-of-touch our elected officials are with their constituents and business priorities.

Rather than rallying behind the president's plea for bipartisan cooperation, the far left, including the Hispanic Caucus, expressed outrage over President Biden's use of the term "illegal" to describe Laken Riley's murderer. Meanwhile, Republicans focused on criticizing the president's pronunciation of Laken's name, rather than acknowledging the broader issue at hand. Once again, both sides missed the point entirely.

This is not about scoring political points or policing language; it's about the American people and American businesses suffering due to a crisis that demands immediate attention. Instead of dwelling on semantics, it's time for both parties to shift their focus back to the core principles of effective governance and business: negotiation and collaboration. A Biden-Trump Summit would have offered the country an extraordinary example of bipartisanship and leadership. But I know better than to hold my breath.

Congressman Henry Cuellar's recent efforts to revisit a bi-partisan border deal underscore the urgency of finding common-sense solutions to the pressing issues at hand. This is exactly what this crisis demands - leaders who are resolved to put the needs of the American people and our economy first. We stand ready to assist and formally extend an offer to Congressman Cuellar and other Democrats and Republicans to facilitate a constructive discussion aimed at crafting a border bill that serves the interests of both the community and our economy.

Let's put an end to the political theatrics, stop acting as the "PC" police, and regain focus on the real issue at hand. It's time for our political leaders to prioritize people over politics, embrace bipartisanship, and find practical solutions. The time for negotiation is now, and the success of our nation depends on the ability of our leaders to put aside differences and work towards a common goal – a prosperous and secure America.
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Javier Palomarez is the President & CEO of the United States Hispanic Business Council (USHBC). Palomarez is a leading voice in the areas of multi-cultural consumerism, marketing, small business, entrepreneurship, and the Hispanic electorate. He is an acclaimed spokesperson for small business and entrepreneurship, as well as a nationally recognized leader in the Hispanic community, being recognized as one of America’s most influential Hispanics for over a decade. The United States Hispanic Business Council (USHBC) is a voice for the Hispanic business community. A 501(c)6 non-profit organization, the USHBC focuses on improving access to contracting in the public and private sector, fair representation of Hispanics in business, media, and politics and ensuring Hispanics have a voice in the national dialogue. The USHBC is a bipartisan organization.