The White House is in the final stages of developing a strategy to tighten border security along the U.S.-Mexico border. The proposed measures include halting asylum requests and automatically denying entry to migrants once the number of encounters surpasses a new daily threshold. President Joe Biden is expected to sign an executive order to implement these changes as early as Tuesday.
The administration's decision comes in response to the ongoing concerns surrounding illegal border crossings, despite a recent decline in numbers due in part to increased efforts by Mexico. With immigration remaining a key issue leading up to the upcoming presidential election, the administration aims to preempt any potential surge in crossings as the election draws nearer.
The proposed measures seek to address the strain on the asylum system by expediting the processing of asylum cases and streamlining procedures for migrants with criminal backgrounds or those deemed ineligible for asylum in the U.S. The administration is considering adopting policies from a stalled bipartisan Senate border deal, including capping daily encounters at an average of 4,000 and potentially excluding asylum-seekers with pre-scheduled appointments.
One option being discussed involves automatically removing migrants who arrive after the border reaches a specified threshold, making it more challenging for them to return. The administration is also exploring alternative pathways for migrants to seek asylum, such as applying through designated outposts in other countries.
While the proposed executive actions aim to bolster border enforcement, they may face legal challenges in the future. The administration is also contemplating additional measures to strengthen the asylum process. Despite the potential for legal scrutiny, the administration remains committed to addressing immigration challenges and securing the border.
Congress recently approved increased funding for detention beds and immigration enforcement, signaling a potential escalation in immigration enforcement efforts. The administration's approach to border security involves a combination of crackdowns and expanded legal pathways, with plans for further actions in the future.
