In a move that has sparked significant debate, Joe Biden is set to implement new executive actions aimed at curbing illegal immigration at the southern border. As the November election nears, this decision comes amid growing political pressure and concerns over record-breaking numbers of migrant encounters.
Biden’s executive order will temporarily suspend the entry of non-citizens across the southern border once the number of daily encounters exceeds 2,500 over a seven-day period. This measure will remain in effect until the average daily encounters drop below 1,500 for a consecutive seven-day span. The goal, according to officials, is to make it easier for immigration officers to quickly remove individuals without a legal basis to remain in the U.S.
The timing of this order is crucial. In the past 24 hours alone, sources indicate there were 5,200 encounters at the border, with a daily average over the past week exceeding 5,000. These figures, while lower than the highs seen in 2022 and 2023, still significantly surpass pre-2021 levels. In April, there were 179,725 encounters compared to 211,992 in the same month last year.
Biden is invoking authorities under sections 212(f) and 215(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), which allow presidents to suspend the entry of certain categories of foreign nationals. His administration argues that these actions are necessary due to the overwhelming numbers at the border and the need for congressional action to address what they describe as a “broken immigration system”.
However, the executive order includes several exceptions. It will not apply to visa holders, unaccompanied children, victims of severe trafficking, or individuals facing acute medical emergencies or imminent threats to life or safety. Additionally, those seeking entry through ports of entry using the CBP One app, which allows around 1,500 migrants daily, are also exempt.
Despite these measures, the decision has faced criticism from both sides of the political spectrum. Republicans argue that the move is too little, too late, accusing Biden of political maneuvering ahead of the election. “By my count, he’s issued 94 executive orders since he’s been president of the United States. But he’s waited until today to actually do what he calls effective action on the border,” said Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas). “And my question to him is, why did you wait until now if you were serious about doing it? The simple answer is he’s not serious about securing the border”.
On the other hand, some Democrats have urged Biden to take more substantial action. Fifteen House Democrats recently wrote to the President, calling for comprehensive measures to better secure the southern border and address issues like illicit fentanyl trafficking. Mayors from major cities including New York, Denver, and Chicago have also demanded more federal funding and expedited work permits as they grapple with the influx of migrants.
As Biden navigates this politically contentious issue, his administration emphasizes that these executive actions are only a temporary solution. They continue to call for bipartisan congressional action to provide lasting reform and resources to secure the border effectively.
With the November election looming, all eyes will be on how these measures impact both the border situation and Biden’s political fortunes.
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