Alejandro Mayorkas (Homeland Security Secretary) stated that there has been no immigration crisis at the U.S. southern border. According to Mayorkas, the large influx of migrants from the south is a result both of global economic downturns as well as climate change.
Martha Raddatz questioned Mayorkas about whether the policies of the Biden administration are effective at the U.S.-Mexico border. Mayorkas’ appearance at ABC’s This Week saw record numbers of illegal immigrants being apprehended by Border Patrol agents as they tried to cross into the U.S.
Mayorkas stated, “I believe we are doing an outstanding job. Mayorkas replied, “We are focused on doing more and we are doing it with our partners from the south. ”
Mayorkas said that the crisis is global, and that people are being driven northwards by the flailing global economic system and the COVID-19 pandemic.
He stated, “This phenomenon is not something that only the United States is experiencing.” Colombia currently has more than 2 million Venezuelans within its borders. Costa Rica indicated that Nicaraguans make up 2% of its population, and that this could rise to 5%. ”
He stated that the increase in migration in the hemisphere was a result of the economic downturn, increased violence in the region and the effects climate change. “We are really facing the regional challenge, and we are working together with our regional partners. ”
Mayorkas’ comments come after the Department of Homeland Security published last Wednesday a report showing that Border Patrol agents processed illegal immigrants more than 220,000 times in May. This is an all time record.
53 migrants were killed in a tractor-trailer accident in San Antonio. At least four people were arrested in connection to this case.
Mayorkas said Sunday that the deaths were tragic results of human smuggling.
He stated, “We continue warning people not to take the dangerous trip.” ” “We enforce our laws. “
