Recent data reveals a decline in the number of migrants apprehended while illegally crossing the U.S.-Mexico border, coinciding with the rollout of a new restrictive policy by the Biden administration.
A senior U.S. border official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, disclosed that approximately 3,100 individuals were arrested for illegal border crossings on Friday, representing a decrease of roughly 20% compared to previous days.
While emphasizing that it’s too early to determine if this decline will persist, the official noted the possibility of early success stemming from the new policy.
Immigration has emerged as a significant issue ahead of the November 5 elections, with President Joe Biden, seeking reelection as a Democrat, facing Republican Donald Trump, known for his tough stance on immigration, in a rematch of the 2020 contest.
Despite initial promises to reverse many of Trump’s immigration policies upon taking office in 2021, Biden has adopted a stricter approach in response to a surge in migrant arrests at the border.
Biden’s recent implementation of a comprehensive policy generally bars migrants illegally crossing the U.S.-Mexico border from seeking asylum. However, exceptions to the asylum ban are made for unaccompanied minors, individuals facing serious medical or safety threats, and victims of trafficking.