Recent data reveals a significant decline in migrant encounters at the southern border, marking a striking contrast to previous administrations. Under President Donald Trump, the number of encounters dropped dramatically, totaling just 237,538 for the 2025 fiscal year, according to Pew Research. This figure starkly contrasts with the soaring numbers reported during the Biden administration, where encounters exceeded 2 million in fiscal years 2023 and 2022.
The 2025 data reflects a remarkable downturn in migration patterns, representing the lowest encounters since 1970. For context, in the prior year, encounters stood at over 1.5 million, while fiscal year 2023 recorded more than 2 million. The decline suggests a systematic shift in border management, effectively curbing illegal crossings that had become rampant in recent years.
When isolating the months of the Biden administration from the new data, the difference becomes even clearer. Between February 2025 and September 2025, monthly encounters at the southwestern border fell to fewer than 10,000. Such numbers not only eclipse the Biden years but also reflect levels typically seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. For example, September 2025 recorded just 8,386 encounters, an astonishing 84 percent drop from the same month in 2024.
Chairman Andrew Garbarino of the House Homeland Security Committee emphasized this shift by stating, “Southwest border apprehensions are at the lowest level in half a century, and criminal cartels are running out of ways to line their pockets at our expense.” He credited President Trump’s border security policies for these results, highlighting investments in physical barriers, technology, and the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) workforce.
The ramifications of these statistics extend beyond mere numbers. The reduction in encounters has implications for border security and the management of immigration. Garbarino’s remarks underline the administration’s focus on preventing the abuses seen during the previous administration, specifically its policies around “catch-and-release” that he criticizes. The bipartisan investment in border security measures suggests a strategic approach to sustaining these successes long-term.
Chairman Michael Guest noted continued declines in border numbers, stating, “We are enabling our men and women of the CBP to do their jobs and keep our border secured.” His remarks reflect a sense of renewed confidence in the enforcement capabilities at the border. Similarly, August Pfluger pointed out that under Trump’s leadership, the homeland is more secure than it has been in years, highlighting a perceived return to law and order.
Data accompanying the latest analysis shows not just a decline in migrant encounters but also highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement at the border. For instance, recent operations led to significant drug seizures, demonstrating that border agents are effectively working to combat trafficking and other criminal activities. The ongoing commitment to enforcing border laws is evident through this vigilant approach.
Overall, the analysis of the latest federal data presents a compelling narrative of border security success during the Trump administration. The historic lows in migrant encounters signify a departure from previous strategies and the enactment of new enforcement protocols that resonate with the current focus on law and order at the border. As the nation reflects on these numbers, it raises questions about the future of immigration policy and border management moving forward.
"*" indicates required fields
