Trump and Biden Clash Over Border Security as Migrant Encounters Surpass 21,000

As the United States grapples with a potential spring surge of illegal border crossings, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) sources revealed that over a span of three days, migrant encounters have exceeded 21,000. The figures indicate a concerning trend in the southern border.

Shift in Traffic

During the period from Friday to Sunday, the Tucson sector in Arizona recorded over 5,400 encounters, making it the sector with the highest number of encounters. Following closely was the San Diego sector in California, with over 3,600 encounters. Interestingly, the data indicates a shift in illegal crossing traffic away from Texas, with the Rio Grande Valley sector and the Del Rio sector seeing significantly lower encounters, averaging 300 to 350 per day.

Decrease and Surge Trend

CBP sources reported that the 7,000-plus daily encounters, although lower than the highs seen in December, follow a pattern observed since President Biden assumed office. Typically, illegal border crossings decrease in January and February, only to rise in March before surging in the spring.

State Response

Amid the evolving situation, Governor Greg Abbott of Texas has taken a firm stance, affirming that Texas will enforce immigration laws within its borders in the absence of federal enforcement. The state's efforts have included measures such as placing a floating barrier in the Rio Grande and installing razor wire along the U.S.-Mexico border. Additionally, the Texas National Guard seized control of Shelby Park in the city of Eagle Pass and prevented Border Patrol from entering the area as part of Abbott's strategy to halt the influx of illegal immigration into Texas.

Political Significance

The border issue has surfaced as a pivotal point in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election, drawing the attention of both President Biden and former President Trump. Both leaders recently made trips to the Texas border, underscoring the significance of the border crisis in the political landscape.