Migrants Turn Back Amid Trump's Border Crackdown

Internal memos from Customs and Border Protection (CBP) indicate that President Donald Trump's anticipated immigration policy is swaying groups of migrants considering illegal entry into the U.S. Two recent instances involved migrant groups reprioritizing their approaches upon learning of the tightened border security.

Migrants reversing course

On February 5, a group of 23 migrants from Honduras, Venezuela, Panama, and El Salvador, who had been en route to the U.S., were intercepted by Honduran officers. After learning about the strengthened border security through social media and family contacts in the U.S., the migrants opted to return to their home countries after entering Mexico through the Guatemala-Mexico border. The memos revealed that the migrants voluntarily surrendered to Mexican authorities before being repatriated to Guatemala, from where they boarded buses heading to their respective countries.

Return of another group of migrants

Another internal memo obtained by Fox News detailed an incident on February 3, where Honduran authorities encountered a group of 26 migrants, primarily from Venezuela and Cuba, who were initially attempting to reach the U.S. The group chose to turn back upon learning about the escalated security measures. After some negotiations, they were permitted to cross into Nicaragua on their way back home.

Impact of Trump's immigration stance

Throughout his 2024 campaign, President Trump emphasized a tough stance on illegal immigration, starkly contrasting with the approach of former President Joe Biden. He frequently highlighted the impact of illegal immigrant crime and the fientanyl crisis, often showcasing families affected by these issues.

Policy changes and legal actions

Following the November election, reports emerged of illegal immigrants leaving the U.S. or opting to "self-deport" ahead of Trump's return to the White House, likely out of concern for potential policy shifts. Upon assuming office for his second term, President Trump swiftly signed the Laken Riley Act, named after a nursing student killed by an illegal immigrant.