The Homeland Security Department reported a more than 40% decrease in arrests for illegal border crossings during the three weeks of suspended asylum processing.
President Joe Biden, who is facing scrutiny over immigration policies, has implemented restrictions on asylum access and introduced new immigration pathways.
The big picture: The recent restrictions cut off asylum access when arrivals at the border reached a certain number and was followed by the announcement of a new program aimed at undocumented spouses of American citizens.
- The average daily arrests by the Border Patrol have decreased below 2,400, marking a reduction of over 40% since June 5 when Biden’s proclamation took effect.
- Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas visited the Tucson, Arizona sector and declared the new rule limiting asylum a success, stating that the actions are changing the calculus for those considering crossing the border.
- These actions under the asylum suspension subject individuals who express fear or intention to seek asylum to higher screening standards, potentially granting more limited forms of humanitarian protection than asylum.
