Border Security Inaction Fuels Cartels, Erodes American Dream

The U.S. has seen record illegal migration, with 2.5 million encounters in 2023. Congress' inaction forced Biden's hand on border/asylum executive actions. Blocking most asylum requests when daily averages hit 2,500 for a week, his actions are legally questionable and now challenged.

Immigration is Americans' top concern for 2024. We need bipartisan solutions for a secure, efficient, humane border. A strong blueprint exists: a framework for legislative reform that modernizes policies, boosts security, and protects migrants.

The plan expedites asylum cases, increases technology and personnel, and invests in tech to stop illicit fentanyl. It also eases pressure on Mexico, reducing transit migration. Polling shows 79% of voters, including 75% of conservatives, support bipartisan action.

With resources, Border Patrol can better protect our border, fight human trafficking, and address illicit drugs. 2M+ asylum cases backlog harms migrants and receiving communities.

Solutions benefit Americans too. Texas needs workers; asylees and immigrants can fill gaps. Legal migration is key to U.S. growth, attracting talent safely and legally. Inaction leaves the border vulnerable and encourages illegal entry.

Let's act for our communities, agents, migrants, and economy. Congress must collaborate on practical solutions, ending reliance on flawed executive actions.

Tameez and Hamer are security experts and members of the National Immigration Forum board.