President Biden is expected to issue an executive order that will address the rights and privileges of individuals in the United States without official permission or who have overstayed their visas. Estimates suggest there are between 10 to 25 million such individuals in the country, with various entry points including the southern border, lawful ports of entry, and coastal landings.
Former President Trump's claims about illegal immigration numbers at the southern border have sparked debates, with a minimum baseline of over 10 million unauthorized crossings during President Biden's tenure.
The upcoming executive order is set to grant certain privileges to a subset of undocumented individuals, raising concerns about conflating border security issues with immigration policy.
One pressing issue is the perceived openness of the southern border, attracting migrants from around the world and leading to perilous journeys facilitated by criminal networks. Calls for border closure and the completion of a physical barrier aim to enhance both migrant safety and national security.
Separately, the question of how to address the millions of undocumented individuals within the country remains contentious. While some advocate for deportation, especially for criminals and security threats, others suggest a pathway to regularization without offering citizenship.
Concerns have been raised about potential constitutional overreach by President Biden through executive orders, with critics emphasizing the need for legal processes and adherence to existing immigration laws.
As the immigration debate continues, the focus on urgent border security measures, criminal deportations, and constitutional compliance remains paramount, while the approach to regularization requires compassion and legal scrutiny.
The potential implications of Biden's executive actions and their alignment with legal frameworks will likely face scrutiny, with contrasting views on the appropriate balance between humanitarian considerations and national security imperatives.