Migrants Pressured By Traffickers To Cross Border Before Trump Enforces Policies

Human traffickers are pressuring migrants to cross the U.S.-Mexico border illegally before President-elect Donald Trump takes office in January, warning that stricter immigration policies will soon make crossings nearly impossible. According to the Wall Street Journal, traffickers have been using WhatsApp to urge migrants to act quickly, declaring, “It’s now or never.”

The smugglers, often tied to criminal cartels, have warned migrants that Trump’s administration will shut down the border to illegal crossings immediately upon taking office. Messages also sarcastically wished migrants “luck” in avoiding apprehension under the new policies.

Trump’s plans for border security include reinstating the “Remain in Mexico” policy, restarting construction of the border wall, and deploying National Guard troops to strengthen enforcement. He also intends to bring back Title 42, a pandemic-era policy that allows for the swift expulsion of migrants without processing asylum claims.

Despite warnings from Mexican authorities against illegal crossings, U.S. border officials are preparing for a surge as migrants attempt to cross before Trump’s policies are implemented. Texas, in particular, has stepped up its border security measures, deploying additional law enforcement personnel under the leadership of Gov. Greg Abbott (R).

Abbott has been vocal about the need for strong border enforcement and has supported policies that reduce illegal immigration. Texas officials are bracing for increased activity along the border in the coming weeks.

The traffickers’ urgency reflects the expected impact of Trump’s immigration reforms, which mark a significant departure from the Biden administration’s policies. Many see Trump’s approach as a critical step toward addressing the ongoing border crisis.