A dramatic shift has taken hold at the nation’s border. Since January, over 2.5 million individuals have departed the United States, according to the Department of Homeland Security, marking a significant change in immigration patterns.
The departure numbers break down into two primary categories: an estimated 1.9 million individuals chose to leave voluntarily, while over 622,000 were deported by federal authorities. This represents a substantial effort to reshape immigration enforcement.
Officials report a staggering 93% decrease in illegal border crossings compared to the previous year. This decline is coupled with a reported halving of fentanyl trafficking, suggesting a direct impact on the flow of dangerous narcotics into the country.
Beyond border control, authorities have focused on removing individuals with criminal records. Hundreds of thousands of those who left the country were either arrested or deported due to criminal activity, signaling a heightened focus on public safety.
The Department of Homeland Security has also highlighted a significant increase in drug seizures. Nearly 540,000 pounds of illicit drugs were confiscated this year, a nearly 10% increase from the previous year’s figures.
The U.S. Coast Guard alone recovered approximately 470,000 pounds of cocaine – a quantity officials say is enough to endanger the lives of 177 million people. These seizures demonstrate a concerted effort to disrupt the supply chain of dangerous narcotics.
A novel approach to encouraging voluntary departures has been implemented through the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Home Mobile App. This program offers individuals living in the country without authorization a complimentary plane ticket home, along with a $1,000 exit bonus.
The agency also claims to have achieved substantial cost savings, exceeding $13 billion across various departments. Agencies like FEMA, CISA, and the Secret Service have reportedly refocused on their primary responsibilities.
Recognition of dedicated service was also a priority. Earlier this year, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) personnel received $10,000 bonuses for demonstrating exceptional service and patriotism during a prolonged government shutdown.
Officials assert that these combined efforts have resulted in a safer nation, with “countless lives” potentially saved and a renewed focus on the well-being of American citizens. The administration maintains that this is only the beginning of a broader effort to secure the country.
