In response to the continuing surge of migrants illegally crossing the southern border, Arizona Senate candidate Kari Lake advocates for a return to Trump-era immigration policies. This call is driven by concerns the Arizona border is witnessing tens of thousands of migrants pouring across every week.
In response to the situation, the US Customs and Border Protection have announced a suspension of rail operations in Eagle Pass and El Paso, Texas, aimed at combating migratory waves. Furthermore, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has enlisted help from the National Guard to handle the record influx.
Despite these measures, their effectiveness has been called into question. The National Guard, due to executive orders by the state, are limited in their duties, lacking authority to arrest migrants or process them. Chris Clem, retired Yuma Border Patrol Chief, emphasized that the national guard can provide logistics and surveillance support but ultimately handling the crisis is a federal responsibility that requires federal action.
An alarming consequence of the situation is the growing disapproval of the current administration's handling of border security. Recent polling indicates that only 33% approve of the administration's work in this area while a significant 63% disapprove.
Commenting on these numbers, Clem argues that this is an American issue that transcends partisan politics and lambasts the false binary choice presented by Washington of having a wall for security or having immigration. According to him, a secure border could effectively be achieved using conventional methods such as personnel, infrastructure, and technology, supported by robust policy.
Clem, who works with an Artificial Intelligence company focused on using technology to combat those exploiting border vulnerabilities, sees border security as integral to national security. This view is echoed by House Homeland Security Committee Chairman, Mark Green, who expressed fears about the current open border situation leading to increased risk for American citizens, citing 294 terrorists on the watch list since the current president took office, a steep increase from only 11 during the entire Trump era.
The severity of the situation resonates deeply with families and workers in border communities who have been dealing with this emergency for years. Majority of Americans believe this is a problem that needs urgent and effective solutions and all eyes are on the current administration for action.
