The ongoing border crisis between Mexico and the United States has sparked serious concerns and heated discussions among politicians. Texas Senator Ted Cruz recently sent a letter to Secretary of Homeland Security, Alejandro Mayorkas, seeking clarification on the screening process for migrants using the Customs and Border Protection One app to board flights. Cruz expressed his worries about the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allowing undocumented immigrants to use the app without proper identification, essentially taking their word for it.
Senator Cruz's letter comes amidst a growing outcry over the current state of the border, which many argue is wide open. President Biden recently engaged in a conversation with the President of Mexico, attempting to address the issue. However, critics assert that it is ultimately the responsibility of the United States to secure its border, rather than relying on Mexico to stop their people from entering.
Highlighting the severity of the situation, Congressman Chip Roy, a Republican from Texas, emphasized the record-breaking numbers of apprehensions at the border. Just this week, a staggering 45,000 individuals were apprehended. Roy denounced the White House's apparent lack of action, citing intentional negligence towards enforcement of immigration laws.
The influx of migrants has overwhelmed border patrol agents, who find themselves outnumbered by a ratio of approximately 200 to 1. Instead of focusing on containing or repatriating migrants, agents are reportedly preoccupied with paperwork to facilitate their transportation to sanctuary cities across the country. Shocking images of migrants freely climbing barriers have circulated, with little to no resistance from the authorities.
The border crisis has far-reaching consequences, extending beyond the immigration debate. Lieutenant Governor of Texas, Dan Patrick, expressed his frustration with President Biden's seemingly indifferent attitude towards American citizens affected by the crisis. Citing six children in his local school district who tragically died from fentanyl poisonings last year, Patrick underlined the urgency of addressing the situation.
While the political landscape is heating up, with the upcoming elections in mind, questions about Vice President Kamala Harris's involvement have also emerged. Despite her recent statement about campaigning in 2024, concerns have been raised about her failure to visit the border. Her sole trip to the border thus far was labeled a mere photo op during a fundraising visit to California.
As the discussion continues to intensify, Republicans are urged to take a firm stance on the border issue. They are encouraged to hold the line in terms of government funding, demanding accountability and change from the Biden administration. With national security at stake and the American people directly affected, it is argued that Republicans have an opportunity to win politically by prioritizing border security and addressing the concerns of the American public.