In a significant shift in immigration policy, President Joe Biden has announced an executive order that will prevent migrants from seeking asylum at the US-Mexico border when daily crossings exceed an average of 2,500 per day over a seven-day period. The order comes as the administration grapples with record numbers of illegal border crossings and mounting pressure from voters on both sides of the political aisle.
Under the new policy, migrants who attempt to enter the country illegally during periods of high volume will be turned away and subjected to expedited removal proceedings. The order includes exceptions for certain groups, such as unaccompanied children, victims of human trafficking, and those facing a medical emergency or an imminent threat to life or safety.
The move marks a departure from Biden's earlier stance on immigration and echoes policies implemented by his predecessor, Donald Trump. Critics argue that the order is inhumane and goes against the principles of asylum seekers' rights, while supporters contend that it is necessary to address the current crisis at the border.
The executive order was met with immediate backlash from immigration advocacy groups and civil liberties organizations, who have vowed to challenge it in court. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has already announced plans to file a lawsuit against the administration over the policy.
Despite the controversy, Biden's order is likely to be popular with some voters, particularly those in border states who have been calling for stronger border security measures. However, it remains to be seen whether this move will address the root causes of illegal immigration or simply serve as a short-term solution to a complex problem.
The following sources were used in the creation of this article:
- Axios: