Highest November Number on Record
In November, the US-Mexico border encountered a record-high number of migrants, surpassing previous years. With a total of 235,173 encounters, the figure is only behind September (269,735) and December 2022 (252,315). This makes it the highest November number on record.
Apprehensions of People on Terror Watch List
Additionally, there were 17 apprehensions of individuals on the terror watch list in November. This raises concerns about national security and highlights the complexity of the situation at the border.
Overwhelming Border Patrol
The Border Patrol has been facing overwhelming challenges following a fiscal year that broke the record for encounters with migrants. Agents have been struggling to cope with the surge of migrants from various parts of the world, particularly in places like Lukeville, Arizona, and Eagle Pass, Texas. To illustrate the magnitude of the situation, Monday saw a record-breaking 12,600 encounters – the highest ever recorded in a single day.
December Numbers Expected to Surpass November
CBP sources have indicated that the number of encounters in December has already exceeded 200,000 and is likely to surpass November’s figures. With agents encountering over 10,000 individuals daily, the situation remains extremely challenging.
Release of Illegal Immigrants into the US
Border Patrol has released over 386,000 illegal immigrants into the United States with Notices to Appear since October 1. This shocking number does not even include those released by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or migrants paroled into the US via the CBP One app at ports of entry.
Political Blame Game
Republicans have placed blame on Biden-era policies, accusing the administration of rolling back measures implemented by the previous administration. To address the crisis, Republicans have passed legislation in the House to limit releases and enhance border security. On the other hand, the Biden administration argues that it requires more funding and comprehensive legislation to fix the “broken” system. They emphasize the need to deal with the hemisphere-wide crisis and expand “lawful pathways” while increasing consequences for illegal entry.
CBP’s Response and Challenges
In response to the increased numbers, CBP has surged resources to manage the situation and is diligently screening every individual encountered. Since May, over 400,000 individuals have been removed from the country. However, acting CBP Commissioner Troy Miller emphasizes the need for more resources from Congress to enhance border security and protect America’s national security.
White House Downplays the Crisis
The White House has appeared to downplay the severity of the crisis, stating that such increases in numbers are “not unusual.” They argue that the immigration system has been broken for decades and President Biden has taken significant steps to address the issue. Negotiations are ongoing in Congress for the White House’s requested supplemental funding, which includes $14 billion for border operations. However, a deal has not yet been reached.
Pressure from State and Local Officials
State and local officials, including mayors of sanctuary cities like Chicago and New York City, are demanding more funding to handle the influx of migrants and the strain it puts on their social services. Some officials have taken matters into their own hands, mobilizing the National Guard and implementing measures to address the situation.
Border Patrol Union’s Concerns
The Border Patrol union has expressed its dissatisfaction with the handling of the crisis. President Brandon Judd voiced the concerns of agents who will be processing illegal border crossers for release into the US during the holiday season. He highlighted the vulnerability of large parts of the border to exploitation by organized crime.
As the situation at the US-Mexico border continues to escalate, both political and practical challenges persist. With record numbers of encounters and ongoing negotiations for funding and legislation, finding a resolution to the crisis remains elusive.