In May, the number of arrests by Border Patrol agents of individuals illegally crossing into the United States dropped to the third lowest level during the Biden presidency. This decline comes as preliminary data indicates a further decrease in encounters with migrants following President Biden's recent announcement of new asylum restrictions.
Customs and Border Protection reported that Border Patrol made 117,900 arrests of individuals entering the country between official border crossing points in May, representing a 9% decrease from April. Since the announcement of the asylum restrictions on June 4, arrests have reportedly fallen by 25%.
The decrease in border encounters may be seen as positive news for the White House, which has been under pressure to demonstrate control over the southern border. However, the fluctuating number of individuals attempting to cross the border is influenced by various factors, including conditions in migrants' home countries and the activities of human smugglers.
Acting CBP head emphasized that while enforcement efforts are contributing to the reduction in border encounters, the current immigration system is not adequately equipped to handle the ongoing situation. Additionally, Mexico's intensified enforcement on its side of the border has also played a role in deterring migrants from reaching the U.S.-Mexico border.
These figures are part of the monthly data released by CBP, which includes information on immigration, trade, and drug seizures. Immigration-related statistics are closely monitored amid heightened political scrutiny on border security and the effectiveness of the Biden administration's immigration policies.
Immigration remains a key concern for voters, with some expressing dissatisfaction with the administration's border security measures. Former President Donald Trump has made immigration a central theme of his campaign, promising strict enforcement actions against illegal immigrants.
Following Biden's announcement of asylum restrictions, legal challenges have been raised, with critics drawing parallels to similar measures implemented during the Trump administration.
