
Apprehensions of migrants unlawfully crossing the U.S. southern border continue breaking records, with over 300,000 encounters in December. And it doesn't look like the trend will change any time soon, threatening to become an electoral liability for president Joe Biden as it turns into a regular talking point among Republicans and polls show broad support for increased border security.
In this context, Biden is seeking to increase Mexico's support to stem the flow of migrants reaching its territory, with numerous trips from high-ranking officials to ask for more assistance from its counterparts. The latest took place in late December and included Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Secretary of State Antony Blinken.