As Donald Trump prepares to retake the presidency, a surge of migrants rushes to cross the U.S.-Mexico border, fearing imminent stricter immigration policies.
At a Glance
- Migrant numbers at the U.S.-Mexico border are increasing following Trump’s 2024 election victory
- Human smugglers are urging migrants to cross before Trump takes office
- Over 100 migrants, including unaccompanied children, recently crossed at Eagle Pass, Texas
- Trump plans to resume border wall construction and implement mass deportations
- Texas is preparing for potential mass crossings, with about 300 illegal immigrants entering Eagle Pass daily
The Rush to Cross
In the wake of Donald Trump’s 2024 election victory, a significant increase in illegal border crossings is occurring along the U.S.-Mexico border. Migrants, primarily from Central and South America, are making a desperate dash to enter the United States before Trump’s administration can implement stricter immigration policies. This surge is fueled by fears of impending border crackdowns and more rigorous enforcement measures promised by the president-elect.
Recently, over 100 migrants, including several unaccompanied children, were intercepted by Border Patrol after crossing into Eagle Pass, Texas. This incident highlights the growing urgency among those seeking to enter the country before Trump’s inauguration. The influx is not limited to Texas; a new migrant caravan of approximately 3,000 people has formed in southern Mexico, all aiming to reach the U.S. before Trump’s policies take effect.
US, Mexico Discuss Options to Slow Surge of Migrants at Borderhttps://t.co/YxYcHq1aVK
— Voice of America (@VOANews) December 28, 2023
Human Smugglers Exploit the Situation
Human smugglers are capitalizing on the migrants’ fears, actively encouraging them to act quickly. These criminal organizations are spreading the message that Trump will eliminate currently available entry methods, spurring organized migration efforts. Smugglers are using technology, particularly WhatsApp groups, to coordinate movements and share information about border crossings.
These smugglers are advising migrants to cross in areas where state troopers lack arrest authority, believing that Border Patrol agents will continue to follow the current administration’s policies until Trump takes office. This tactical approach demonstrates the sophistication of these criminal networks and their ability to adapt to changing political landscapes.
Texas Braces for Impact
As the situation escalates, Texas is preparing for a potential influx of crossings. The state is already experiencing a daily average of about 300 illegal immigrants entering through Eagle Pass alone. This puts immense pressure on local resources and law enforcement agencies, who are struggling to manage the increasing numbers.
The Biden administration’s policies, which reversed many of Trump’s executive orders, have been blamed for the record-breaking number of migrant encounters at the border. In 2022, over 2.2 million illegal crossings were recorded, a stark increase from previous years. This trend has continued, setting the stage for the current rush as Trump’s presidency approaches.
Trump’s Planned Immigration Overhaul
Trump’s agenda for his upcoming term includes a comprehensive overhaul of immigration policies. He plans to resume border wall construction, revive the “Remain in Mexico” program, hire more border patrol agents, and initiate a large-scale deportation program. These proposed measures have created a sense of urgency among migrants and their facilitators.
The stark contrast between the current administration’s approach and Trump’s proposed policies has created a volatile situation at the border. As the transition of power approaches, both migrants and U.S. authorities are bracing for what could be a tumultuous period in immigration enforcement and border security.
