A recent tweet by journalist Collin Rugg has brought attention to a significant issue: the increasing number of illegal immigrants released into the United States since the Biden administration took office. Rugg claims that over 7 million illegal immigrants have been admitted into the country, a figure that surpasses the population of 36 states. This statistic sheds light on a complex and ongoing crisis at the southern border.
The numbers, derived from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) data, underline a dramatic rise in illegal crossings. Monthly totals frequently exceed 200,000 encounters, and 2023 has already seen over 2.4 million interactions with migrants at the border. This unprecedented flow contributes to a backlog of more than 3 million immigration cases, as countless individuals await their court dates.
Mark Morgan, former acting CBP commissioner, voiced strong concerns about the implications of this trend. He emphasized, “This is not just a policy failure; it’s a national security risk.” The strain on local resources—including law enforcement and healthcare—has put communities on edge. Many migrants are released with court dates far into the future, often years away, leaving them in limbo without work permits or housing assistance.
The situation is further complicated by various factors propelling migration, from dire conditions in countries like Venezuela and Haiti to the perceived leniency in U.S. immigration policies. Critics highlight that the rollback of the “Remain in Mexico” policy and the expansion of humanitarian parole have made the U.S. more appealing to those seeking entry, creating a pull factor that compounds the crisis.
Representative Andy Biggs has called for a return to more stringent enforcement strategies, stating, “We warned that abandoning deterrence would lead to chaos.” The financial burden of illegal immigration is becoming increasingly apparent, with estimates surpassing $150 billion annually, primarily impacting state and local budgets for education and public services. New York City, citing its status as a sanctuary city, has raised alarms about the financial impact of this influx. Mayor Eric Adams has made it clear that “This issue will destroy New York City,” as the city grapples with costs that could hit $10 billion by 2025.
In response to these challenges, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has initiated “Operation Lone Star,” deploying state resources to address the influx of migrants. This initiative has seen over 100,000 migrants bused to various destinations, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of border policy failures.
The Biden administration is adjusting its approach, attempting to manage the crisis with new asylum regulations and partnerships with Central American countries. However, whistleblower reports indicate a troubling trend toward mass “catch and release” practices, where migrants are permitted to roam freely while awaiting often delayed court dates. Tom Homan, former acting director of ICE, has criticized this method, contending that it undermines the legal process by allowing individuals to avoid accountability for illegal entry.
Statistics corroborate these concerns, revealing that nearly 40% of migrants released into the U.S. did not attend their immigration hearings in Fiscal Year 2023. This level of noncompliance raises alarm among immigration judges and law enforcement, potentially endangering public safety. The situation is exacerbated by stretched resources within Border Patrol, where agents face grueling hours amid increasing encounters. National Border Patrol Council President Brandon Judd captured the sentiment of his colleagues, stating, “We have a border in name only.”
The public is taking notice. A Gallup survey from February 2024 indicates that immigration is now the top concern for 28% of Americans, the highest since 2010. Support for stronger border enforcement, including efforts to reinstate the “Remain in Mexico” policy, is growing among voters.
Congressional action, however, remains stagnant. The Senate’s bipartisan border package, intended for enforcement and asylum reform, failed to pass due to disputes over funding priorities. House Republicans continue to push for the “Secure the Border Act,” proposing enhanced measures for border security and a return to stricter removal protocols.
The pressures of this situation are culminating in early 2024, with CBP reporting over 5,000 border encounters daily. The repercussions extend beyond the border, affecting cities and communities struggling to accommodate new arrivals. Retired ICE officer John Fabbricatore captured the sentiment of many, stating, “This is an open door policy pretending to be enforcement.” The lasting impact of these policies will inevitably be borne by the American taxpayer, raising critical questions about the future direction of immigration in the United States.
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