Staff Reports
The southern border of the United States has seen an astonishing shift in the past few months, one that leaves many shaking their heads in disbelief. In December 2023, border crossings reached unprecedented levels, with staggering numbers emerging that could leave anyone aghast. The Border Patrol reported catching roughly a quarter of a million individuals in that one month alone. Out of those, around 190,000 were caught and then released—essentially free to rove about the country without much consequence.
Flash forward just a couple of months to February, and those numbers tell a radically different story. Instead of hundreds of thousands, only about 20 people were caught and released. These few individuals were primarily medical cases that required immediate attention, which is a far cry from the vast numbers being encountered in December. The drastic decline in crossings indicates that a shift in policies and actions has taken effect.
Many have speculated about the reasons behind this dramatic change, and it’s clear that there are systemic factors at play. The previous administration’s catch-and-release approach seemed to encourage an influx, as hopeful migrants documented their journey across the border and shared it widely on social media. They painted a picture that life in America was ripe with opportunities, enticing friends and family back home to make the perilous journey themselves. This created a cycle of increased migration, as more and more people heard the message that “the water is fine.”
However, policies have changed under the current administration, leading to a notable decrease in the number of would-be immigrants making that journey. With stricter enforcement measures in place, those who are apprehended are typically held and, if warranted, deported. This has created a chilling effect; the new practice of detaining and not simply releasing individuals who cross illegally has sent a clear message: if the risks outweigh the rewards, many might think twice before attempting to cross the border.
The conversation around immigration policies is not new, with debates raging for decades on potential solutions to the challenges at the border. Many experts have pondered if new legislation was necessary. However, the pragmatic lesson that has emerged is that often, it comes down to willpower—determined action can change the landscape dramatically. The recent numbers serve as a clear indication that a decisive effort can indeed make a difference.
As those who have been following this ongoing saga know, the importance of maintaining a secure border has never been more evident. The situation remains complex, but the recent decline in border crossings showcases what can happen when measures are put in place to deter illegal activity. With the right policies and determined enforcement, there may just be a glimmer of hope that order can be restored to our borders.
