a recent Fox News segment, former acting ICE director Tom Homan addressed the alarming surge at the U.S.-Mexico border, emphasizing the record-breaking numbers of apprehensions and the strain it has placed on Border Patrol agents. Homan discussed the potential consequences of this surge, the challenges faced by law enforcement, and the need for decisive action. The former ICE director also criticized the response of the Biden administration and suggested key measures to address the crisis.
Unprecedented Surge at the Border
The segment began by highlighting the significant increase in migrant arrivals at the U.S.-Mexico border, with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reporting over 240,000 apprehensions in November alone, marking the highest November on record. As December progresses, CBP sources predict another record-breaking month, potentially reaching 300,000 apprehensions. The surge has created a breaking point for Border Patrol agents, leading to concerns about the ability to effectively manage the situation.
Former acting ICE director Tom Homan, expressed deep concern about the unprecedented surge, particularly noting that December’s numbers are anticipated to set a historic record. Drawing attention to the strain on Border Patrol agents, Homan emphasized that the men and women on the front lines feel abandoned by the current administration.
Border Patrol’s Struggles and Broken Spirits
Homan, who recently visited the border in Texas, described the dire situation faced by Border Patrol agents. He stated that the agents’ spirits are broken, and they feel hopeless due to the overwhelming challenges. According to Homan, agents are spending the majority of their time processing illegal aliens 24/7, leaving little room for critical tasks such as intelligence gathering and deep dives into identification.
Highlighting the severity of the situation, Homan cited instances where entire border sectors had no active Border Patrol agents on patrol. The former ICE director claimed that the border is in a state of crisis, with law enforcement overwhelmed and unable to address the core issues contributing to the surge.
National Security Concerns
One of the alarming aspects discussed by Homan was the compromise of national security due to the rush to process and release individuals. He recounted conversations with agents who mentioned abandoning practices such as searching for intelligence information in migrants’ possessions, leading to a lack of critical data on smuggling organizations, routes, and criminal backgrounds.
The inability to conduct thorough investigations poses a significant national security risk, as law enforcement struggles to determine the identities and intentions of those entering the country. Homan emphasized that the current situation raises questions about the effectiveness of border security and the potential consequences of insufficient screening.
Mexico’s Role and Failed Solutions
Addressing potential solutions, Homan criticized the approach of seeking help from Mexico, stating that additional meetings and discussions are futile. He argued that Mexico has financial incentives to allow the status quo to continue, citing the billions of dollars the country earns through remittances from illegal aliens in the U.S. Additionally, Homan called for the reinstatement of the Remain in Mexico program, a policy that proved effective during the Trump administration.
Homan expressed frustration with political figures conducting what he referred to as “dog and pony shows” at the border, citing House Speaker Mike Johnson’s planned visit in January. He urged policymakers to stay in Washington, D.C., and address the border crisis by taking concrete actions, such as impeaching Secretary Mayorkas for his handling of the situation.
Catch and Release Policy Criticized
The discussion also touched upon the Catch and Release policy, which has become a contentious issue. Homan argued that the policy is by design and not due to mismanagement. He emphasized that releasing individuals into the country without detaining them enables them to remain indefinitely, awaiting future amnesty or lenient immigration policies.
Homan cited a report by journalist William La Jeunesse, revealing the existence of thousands of empty ICE beds already paid for by taxpayers. Despite the availability of resources, the government opts for alternatives, such as placing migrants in hotels, indicating a deliberate choice rather than a lack of capacity.