Southern border communities are breathing a collective sigh of relief as illegal immigration numbers decrease and a sense of normalcy returns with the upcoming second inauguration of President-elect Trump. Sheriff Brad Coe of Kinney County, Texas, describes the shift from "total chaos" to a more peaceful atmosphere. During the Biden administration, illegal crossings in his area skyrocketed to 480,000 in 2022, turning Eagle Pass into a battleground between Texas Governor Greg Abbott and federal authorities. Sheriff Coe recounts the significant financial losses, constant danger, and dramatic increase in high-speed chases faced by law enforcement during this period.
With Trump's return, Sheriff Coe expresses optimism, citing a change in attitude both from the administration and the American public, who are weary of the border crisis. He believes the Trump administration will prioritize collaboration with border communities and empower Customs and Border Protection agents. This renewed sense of hope is palpable among residents and law enforcement, allowing them to regain a sense of security and stability.
Hundreds of miles away in Yuma, Arizona, Mayor Douglas Nicholls echoes this sentiment. After experiencing a surge in illegal crossings during the Biden era, Yuma now sees a significant drop to approximately 50 per day, a manageable number for Border Patrol. Mayor Nicholls anticipates a similar level of support from the incoming Trump administration as he received during the first term, recalling the positive impact of the "Remain in Mexico" program. He plans to proactively engage with the new administration to ensure effective communication and resource allocation for Yuma.
Del Rio Police Chief Frank Ramirez also expresses hope for improvement. While the current situation is less severe than in the past, human smuggling and cartel activity remain a concern, straining resources and personnel. Chief Ramirez emphasizes the dedication of Del Rio officers as the "first line of defense" and highlights the need for increased federal funding to address the dual challenges of regular crime and immigration-related issues. He stresses the importance of competitive salaries to attract and retain officers in smaller border towns.
These border leaders share a common thread of hope and anticipation for a more secure border and increased support under the incoming Trump administration. Their communities have endured significant challenges during the previous administration, and they look forward to a renewed focus on border security and collaboration between federal and local authorities.
