President Biden is set to unveil a new executive action aimed at curbing the flow of illegal migrants crossing the U.S.-Mexico border between legal ports of entry. This sweeping measure will effectively shut down the southern border in those areas to asylum seekers once unlawful crossings reach a daily average of 2,500. The president's move represents his most aggressive attempt to address the border crisis, a longstanding issue that has been a significant political challenge for him.
The announcement comes just weeks before President Biden's first debate with former President Donald Trump, signaling a strategic response to criticism regarding the handling of the U.S.-Mexico border. The executive action mirrors a similar approach taken by Trump during his presidency.
The new measure will block asylum for migrants who have crossed between ports of entry unlawfully, allowing them to be turned back to Mexico or their home countries. However, unaccompanied minors will be exempt from this policy. The action can be adjusted based on the daily threshold of illegal crossings, providing a flexible approach to border management.
President Biden is expected to be joined by border mayors and Democratic lawmakers who support the measure during the announcement. While some Democrats back the decision, there has been notable backlash from progressives who view the action as too reminiscent of Trump's policies.
The president has defended his actions on immigration, urging Congress to take further steps to address border challenges. The failed bipartisan border bill earlier this year has been a point of contention, with President Biden emphasizing the need for legislative action.
This shift in policy marks a significant departure from Biden's previous stance on asylum seekers, where he emphasized the U.S. as a haven for migrants. The move underscores the administration's ongoing efforts to grapple with the complexities of the border crisis.
