The Biden Administration is facing a steep challenge heading into the 2024 election due to record-breaking border crossings into the U.S. From January to April 2021, almost 200,000 people were apprehended at the U.S.-Mexico border, according to the Wall Street Journal. In April alone, there were 172,000 apprehensions, the highest monthly figure since March 2001.
These numbers have placed a burden on the Biden Administration to act swiftly and effectively in order to deter would-be immigrants and assimilate those who have already made it into the U.S. From implementing stricter border security policies to providing aid and resources to border towns, the Biden Administration is tasked with not only addressing the issue of illegal immigration but also keeping it from turning into a political issue that will likely carry over into the 2024 election.
The issue of migration to the U.S. is complex and requires a comprehensive approach to deal with it, involving not only the U.S. Border Patrol and immigration authorities, but also NGOs, local governments, and individual advocates. In addition to traditional immigration enforcement practices, the Biden Administration is also looking to various approaches that focus on creating a supportive legal and economic environment for immigrants, offering safe and legal pathways into the U.S., enhancing the security of U.S. borders, and addressing the factors that motivate people to migrate.
The Biden Administration has already issued several executive orders related to immigration, including the creation of a task force to reunite families separated at the U.S.-Mexico border, the elimination of the controversial “remain in Mexico” policy, and the development of a comprehensive strategy to address the root causes of migration.
While the Biden Administration is taking steps to address illegal immigration, the effect of the increasing numbers of border crossings will ultimately be determined by the public’s reaction come 2024. How will the Biden Administration’s approach be received by the American people? Will they be satisfied with the progress made by the new administration or will they perceive the situation as a failure on the part of the Biden Administration? Only time will tell. One thing is certain: record-breaking border crossings are a burden the Biden Administration carries into the 2024 election.