Border state lawmaker reveals what ‘drastic’ changes can be solidified with major congressional action

Improved Lives and Drastic Changes: The Impact of Trump’s Border Policies

Life for many residents in border communities has seen significant improvement following swift policy changes implemented by the former Trump administration, according to Rep. Juan Ciscomani, R-Ariz. In an interview with Fox News Digital, Ciscomani highlighted the positive outcomes of these policies, stating that the changes have been "drastic" and that residents are "very happy with the results." The congressman emphasized that the numbers reflecting these improvements were expected, as the administration had anticipated the impact of their actions.

One of the most notable results of these policies is the sharp decline in migrant encounters at the southern border. According to data from United States Customs and Border Protection, February saw just over 8,300 encounters, marking the lowest number recorded since officials began tracking these statistics. This reduction is part of a broader strategy that includes deploying more troops to the southern border, designating cartels and gangs like Tren de Aragua as foreign terrorist groups, and conducting nationwide Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids targeting illegal immigrants suspected of crimes. These measures have not only reduced the influx of migrants but also enhanced security and stability in border regions.

A New Era of Security and Stability

The decreased number of migrant encounters is only one piece of the puzzle when it comes to addressing the complexities of border security. Ciscomani underscored the tangible effects of these policies on the daily lives of his constituents, many of whom live in or near the border. "They’ve seen an immediate change in their daily lives," he said, noting that residents are witnessing these changes both in person and through news reports. This sense of visible progress has been a significant morale booster for communities that have long grappled with the challenges of illegal immigration and related criminal activities.

As the Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, Ciscomani is leading a delegation of freshman GOP lawmakers on a trip to the Arizona border. This visit includes stops at ports of entry, discussions with local authorities, and a tour with the National Border Patrol Council. The group, which includes representatives from Utah, North Dakota, Colorado, North Carolina, Kansas, Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia, aims to gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges faced by Arizona’s border communities. Ciscomani emphasized the importance of firsthand experience, pointing out that many lawmakers who campaign on border issues often lack the opportunity to visit the border themselves. "Arizona’s so unique in so many ways," he said, highlighting the state’s distinct challenges and the need for tailored solutions.

Bipartisan Efforts and Future Challenges

While the current progress is commendable, Ciscomani acknowledges that there is still much work to be done to ensure these changes are permanent. During the tenure of former President Joe Biden, the country experienced a surge in migrant encounters, with millions of incidents reported. To prevent a repeat of such a crisis, Ciscomani is pushing for legislative measures that would solidify the gains made under the Trump administration. One such effort is the Agent Raul Gonzalez Office Safety Act, which he recently helped pass in the House. This legislation would impose prison time and potential deportation for individuals convicted of fleeing authorities within 100 miles of the border. While some Democrats supported the bill, others criticized it as an overreach.

Ciscomani also expressed the need for bipartisan collaboration to address the root causes of illegal immigration and improve border security. He pointed to the asylum process as an area requiring reform, specifically the need to raise the "credible fear standard." Additionally, he advocated for making policies like "Remain in Mexico" permanent, suggesting that such measures could be implemented through reconciliation. One promising example of bipartisan cooperation is a bill he is co-sponsoring with Rep. Don Davis, D-N.C., to deploy image technicians at ports of entry. These technicians would play a crucial role in detecting illicit drugs more efficiently and effectively, addressing another critical aspect of border security.

The Road Ahead: Permanent Solutions and Bipartisan Cooperation

In summary, the positive changes in border communities following the Trump administration’s policy changes are a testament to the importance of effective governance and bipartisan collaboration. While significant progress has been made, the journey toward a secure and stable border is far from over. As Ciscomani and his colleagues continue to work toward permanent solutions, their efforts will undoubtedly shape the future of border security and the lives of millions of Americans living in these critical regions.