Staff Reports
In a recent trip to the U.S.-Mexico border, Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) made some revealing discoveries about the effectiveness of physical barriers in deterring illegal migration. The senator was amazed by the innovative methods Texans are using – from buoys and shipping containers to fencing and razor wire – to block the flow of illegal immigrants. The ingenious tactics implemented by Texans have significantly reduced the number of border crossings in areas that were once swamped with migrants.
Exclusive – Sen. Marsha Blackburn at Border: ‘Walls Work,’ Need Barriers to Stop Flow of Migrants into America https://t.co/OJX4yI4KLn
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During her visit to Eagle Pass, Texas, Senator Blackburn observed the remarkable transformation that has occurred since her last visit in early 2023. At that time, the area was inundated with thousands of people crossing the border, but now, thanks to the Texas state government’s proactive measures, only a handful of individuals attempted to cross during her recent visit. These findings underscore the crucial role of physical barriers in border security.
Senator Blackburn emphasized the necessity of passing two key pieces of legislation, the CONTAINER Act and the CLEAR Act, to address the ongoing border crisis. The CONTAINER Act would empower state and local governments to construct temporary barriers in the absence of federal action, while the CLEAR Act would send a strong message worldwide that illegal entry into the United States is unwelcome and will result in deportation. These measures aim to address the failure of the current administration in effectively securing the border.
Despite the success observed in Eagle Pass, Senator Blackburn highlighted that migrants are diverting their efforts to other areas such as El Paso, Arizona, and California to circumvent the barriers. This spike in illegal border crossings underscores the urgent need for comprehensive border security measures, including physical barriers, enhanced technology, and increased manpower to combat the unprecedented influx of illegal immigration.
Senator Blackburn also criticized the Biden administration for its lax border policies, citing the reversal of crucial policies such as remain-in-Mexico and the reinstatement of catch-and-release. She voiced concerns that the administration’s approach only serves to exacerbate the migration crisis, rather than effectively addressing it. Additionally, she pointed to the excessive executive actions taken by President Biden, which have contributed to the surging flow of migrants and strained resources in border communities.
Moreover, Senator Blackburn highlighted the alarming volume of illegal drugs seized by Texas law enforcement, including massive quantities of marijuana, methamphetamine, and fentanyl. The seizure of fentanyl alone, she noted, was enough to potentially cause widespread harm to the entire American population. These troubling revelations underscore the multifaceted threats posed by unsecured borders, from illegal immigration to the infiltration of dangerous narcotics into the country.
Perhaps most poignant were the sentiments expressed by local ranchers, farmers, law enforcement officials, and business owners, who feel overlooked by the federal government. They conveyed a deep sense of frustration with the lack of support and understanding from the White House, especially in safeguarding their properties from illegal activities related to border crossings. Their plea for assistance and a tangible physical barrier resonates strongly with Senator Blackburn’s advocacy for robust border security measures to protect American communities.
Senator Marsha Blackburn’s firsthand observations at the U.S.-Mexico border underscore the critical role of physical barriers in deterring illegal immigration and contraband smuggling. Her legislative efforts seek to reinforce border security and send a resolute message that illegal entry will not be tolerated. As the debate over border security intensifies, Senator Blackburn’s unwavering commitment to addressing the challenges posed by illegal migration remains steadfast, grounded in the real-world experiences and concerns of those directly impacted by the crisis.
