July Border Encounters Hit Lowest Level in Four Years

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced on Friday that the number of encounters with migrants at the southwest border fell to its lowest level in four years last month.

According to CBP, the Border Patrol recorded 56,408 encounters between ports of entry along the southwestern border in July. This represents the lowest monthly figure since September 2020.

This report comes in the wake of an executive action taken by President Biden in June, aimed at turning away migrants who attempt to cross the southern border illegally during times of high encounter rates.

Acting CBP Commissioner Troy Miller stated that the significant reduction in encounters last month demonstrates the effectiveness of the border security measures implemented. He noted, “Our border security measures enhanced our ability to deliver consequences for illegal entry – leading to the lowest number of encounters along the southwest border in more than three years.”

Miller emphasized the collaborative efforts with international partners to combat transnational criminal organizations that profit from smuggling people and drugs. He mentioned ongoing initiatives targeting the fentanyl supply chain, stating, “These efforts are seeing results, as CBP saw the largest fentanyl seizure in our agency’s history just a few weeks ago.” He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to vigilance in their operations alongside global partners.

The announcement also highlights the tumultuous political landscape regarding border security, with a bipartisan border security bill having faced two recent defeats in the Senate within the past year. The legislation has sparked considerable debate and controversy.

Former President Trump publicly criticized the proposed border bill in February, labeling it “a Death Wish for The Republican Party.” He expressed his disapproval on Truth Social, stating, “Only a fool, or a Radical Left Democrat, would vote for this horrendous Border Bill, which only gives Shutdown Authority after 5000 Encounters a day, when we already have the right to CLOSE THE BORDER NOW.”

The debate over border security remains a contentious issue as various parties weigh the effectiveness of policies aimed at managing migration and ensuring safety along the U.S.-Mexico border. The recent drops in encounters provide a measure of insight into the current state of border security and enforcement strategies.

Observations indicate that the combination of executive measures and cooperative international efforts may have contributed to this decline in crossings. As the Biden administration continues its efforts, the repercussions of political discourse will likely influence future policies and legislation.

As conditions at the southern border evolve, responses from both the government and political figures will be closely monitored to determine if these trends of decreased encounters will persist.

Source: Nexstar Media