Early data reveals a significant decrease in migrant encounters at the U.S. southern border during the first days of the reinstated Trump administration, compared to the final days of the Biden administration. Sources within the Department of Homeland Security indicate a 35% reduction in Border Patrol encounters during this transitional period. This data specifically reflects encounters at the southern border and excludes interactions at the northern border and official ports of entry managed by Customs and Border Protection's Office of Field Operations.
Specifically, nationwide encounters totaled 3,908 between January 17th and 19th. Following President Trump's return to office on January 20th, encounters further declined to 1,073, then 736 on the 21st, and 714 on the 22nd, totaling 2,523.
While border encounter figures are known to fluctuate, the recent decline follows a period of relatively low numbers since June, attributed to President Biden's executive order restricting asylum access. This order followed a period of record-breaking migration in 2021.
Upon resuming office, President Trump immediately implemented further restrictions, including declaring a national emergency at the border, deploying military personnel, and halting the use of the CBP One app for processing migrants seeking humanitarian parole at ports of entry. A large-scale deportation operation has also been initiated, with ICE agents active across various U.S. cities and states.
Furthermore, the Department of Homeland Security has rescinded Biden-era limitations on ICE, initiated a review of parole practices, and broadened the application of expedited removal for recent illegal arrivals. The administration is also working to reinstate border wall construction and the 'Remain-in-Mexico' policy, requiring asylum seekers to remain in Mexico while their cases are processed.
President Trump also issued an executive order targeting birthright citizenship for children born to illegal immigrants, a move that has prompted legal challenges from numerous Democratic-led states.
While the data is still preliminary, the observed decrease in border encounters may suggest a "Trump effect," where potential migrants are deterred by the perception of stricter immigration enforcement and reduced chances of successful entry or increased likelihood of deportation.
