If deploying the military to the border is the answer? How much is the cost?
What do the military have that the border agents don’t have?
Or is it that Agents aren’t processing asylum-seekers anymore!
The Department of Homeland Security has asked Congress for $45.6 billion to build hundreds more miles of fencing at the southern border, while they know rope ladders, tunnels, and sawing of the wall can still gain entrance! But remember with Trump it is all about money! He can pay off his buddy contractors as he did last time with no procurement rules! It’s not his money it’s ours!
Military gets paid whether they are at the border or not.
The Bill for the border includes $46.5 billion for the border wall, $4.1 billion to hire Border Patrol agents and other personnel, and more than $2 billion for signing and retention bonuses for Border Patrol agents.
Why cut it when it is working. Fewer crossings will allow for the courts to catch up with the due process everyone wants. This will hasten the deportation of the undesirables. Extra agents can go after those with standing orders to leave. It sounds like a win-win for both sides. While I don’t agree with the way in which the administration is handling the migrant issue, the need to reduce illegal border crossings was necessary.
The last 4 years of the Biden administration denied there was any border crisis until election season came around. My local San Diego news outlets reported last month that illegal border crossings were at their lowest in years. Some people don’t want to admit that Trump’s hard-line border stance is working…and that infuriates them.
In February of 2024 a bipartisan bill to strengthen the border was killed at Trump’s behest by GOP members who would rather see the country fail than allow a solution work under Biden’s administration. Look it up. That proposed bill was garbage. It was a big welfare bill for illegals with no provisions for border control, only for additional “processing”. It needed to be quashed.
He talks like everyone from Mexico is a criminal – far from true. They commit fewer crimes than citizens. Now he says white people from South Africa are in danger and should be allowed into the US. So, Hispanics in actual danger should be kept out, but white people in questionable danger should be let in. No question about his motivations
We have a Great Leader sitting in office whose first, last, and every thought is the safety, prosperity, security, and sovereignty of the citizens. America FIRST Agenda. USA! USA! USA! MAGA TRUMP.
Trump Admin Rolls Out New Tool To Stop Noncitizens From ‘Hijacking’ US Elections
FACT the TRUMP administration has a vision: drain the swamp and make government work for the American people. USA! USA! USA! America FIRST Agenda. MAGA TRUMP
Border crossings have seen a significant decline recently. At the U.S.-Mexico border, illegal crossings have dropped to the lowest levels since record-keeping began, with the El Paso Sector experiencing a 93% decrease in migrant encounters. This trend accelerated after policy changes restricting asylum access and increased military presence at the border1.
Similarly, crossings from Canada into the North Country have also fallen sharply, coinciding with trade tensions and new tariffs. In April, crossings at key entry points like Alexandria Bay and Ogdensburg were down by more than 31% compared to last year.
Would you like more details on the factors behind this decline?
Crossing at the Border take sharp decline
Border crossings have seen a significant decline recently. At the U.S.-Mexico border, illegal crossings have dropped to their lowest levels since record-keeping began, with U.S. Border Patrol reporting roughly 8,400 migrant encounters in April 2025, compared to nearly 129,000 in April 2024. In the El Paso Sector, migrant encounters fell 93% in April, from over 30,000 a year ago to under 2,000.
Similarly, crossings from Canada into the North Country have also decreased, with southbound travel dropping 26% in March and remaining 20% lower in April compared to last year. The sharp decline coincides with ongoing trade tensions and new tariffs imposed by the U.S. government2.
Would you like more details on the factors behind this trend?
1USA TODAY | MSN 2North Country Public Radio
“This Department of Defense property has been declared a restricted area,” the signs read in tiny print.
Migrants who cross illegally here can be charged with trespassing on what is now a military installation.
Border crossings have seen a significant decline recently. At the U.S.-Mexico border, illegal crossings have dropped to the lowest levels since record-keeping began, with the El Paso Sector experiencing a 93% decrease in migrant encounters. This trend accelerated after policy changes restricting asylum access and increased military presence at the border1.
Opinions on military presence in border communities vary widely and are shaped by personal experiences, local history, and political perspectives.
Some residents welcome it, seeing the military as a source of security, stability, and economic support. Those who have jobs connected to military operations—such as working on bases or supplying goods and services—often view the presence as beneficial. In areas with high crime or smuggling, some people appreciate the added enforcement.
Others feel differently. Some residents worry about restrictions on movement, increased surveillance, or tensions between civilians and military personnel. If the military has been involved in past conflicts in the region, people may feel uneasy or distrustful. Environmental concerns can also play a role, especially if military exercises disrupt land or water resources.
There’s no single viewpoint that defines all residents of a border community, and perspectives can shift over time depending on the level of military activity and its impact. If you’re thinking about a particular region, I can dig into how opinions have been shaped there.
Border communities experience a mix of impacts when there’s a military presence nearby—some positive, some challenging.
On the one hand, military presence can boost local economies by providing jobs, increasing security, and investing in infrastructure. Troops stationed in these areas often spend money at local businesses, and military bases can bring government funding for roads, schools, and other public services. Increased security can reduce crime and smuggling, making people feel safer.
However, there are also drawbacks. Heavy military presence can lead to tensions, especially if residents feel like they’re under constant surveillance. Some border communities experience restrictions on movement, disruption to local economies, or environmental damage caused by military exercises. In places with a history of conflict, militarization can increase feelings of instability rather than security.
It really depends on the region and political circumstances. Some border communities benefit from military operations, while others struggle with the pressures they bring.
Exactly. The impact of military presence isn’t one-size-fits-all—it depends on the specific circumstances of each border region. Some communities thrive due to economic opportunities and improved security, while others face challenges like restricted movement, heightened surveillance, or environmental damage. Local history, political tensions, and even international relations all play a role in shaping the experience.
Here are a few examples of border communities that have been significantly affected by military presence:
- U.S.-Mexico Border Communities: Cities like El Paso, Texas, and San Diego, California, have experienced extensive militarization due to border security policies. Increased military-style enforcement has led to restricted movement, heightened surveillance, and tensions between residents and authorities.
- Middle Eastern Border Regions: Countries like Jordan and Lebanon, which border conflict zones, have seen military presence shape daily life. Refugee influxes, security operations, and military checkpoints impact local economies and social dynamics.
- European Border Areas: Some Eastern European countries, particularly those bordering Russia, have seen increased military activity due to geopolitical tensions. This has affected trade, infrastructure, and the daily lives of residents.
Each of these regions experiences unique challenges and benefits depending on the level of military involvement. Would you like to explore a specific case in more detail?
1www.southernborder.org 2afsc.org 3totalmilitaryinsight.com
What are the impacts on El Paso and San Diego?
El Paso and San Diego have both experienced significant impacts from military presence at the U.S.-Mexico border.
- El Paso, Texas: The deployment of additional troops has led to heightened security measures, including increased surveillance and physical barriers. While some residents appreciate the enforcement, others express concerns about restrictions on movement and the perception of militarization1. Local leaders have pointed out that the presence of troops affects the economy and deters visitors.
- San Diego, California: Military personnel have been stationed to assist with border operations, including constructing barriers and supporting enforcement efforts. Some advocates argue that the military presence contributes to uncertainty and anxiety among residents, particularly those involved in immigration-related issues2. The deployment has also been linked to deportation flights for detained individuals.
Both cities experience a mix of economic, social, and political effects due to military involvement. Would you like to explore how residents have responded to these changes?
1kvia.com 2www.nbcsandiego.com
What are the economic impacts of military presence in these cities?
Military presence has a significant economic impact on both El Paso, Texas, and San Diego, California:
- El Paso: The military contributes to the local economy through defense contracts, employment, and infrastructure investments. Fort Bliss, a major military installation, supports thousands of jobs and brings federal funding to the region. However, some businesses and residents express concerns about restrictions and disruptions caused by heightened security measures.
- San Diego: The military is a major economic driver, with defense spending supporting industries like shipbuilding, aerospace, and technology. The San Diego Military Advisory Council (SDMAC) has reported that military-related activities generate billions of dollars for the local economy, creating jobs and boosting business growth. The presence of military bases also influences housing markets and public services.
Would you like to explore how these economic effects compare to other border cities?
What specific policy changes contributed to this decline?
Several policy changes have contributed to the sharp decline in border crossings:
- Restricted Asylum Access: The Biden administration initially limited asylum claims at the border in June 2024, and the Trump administration later suspended undocumented migrant entry entirely in January 2025.
- Increased Military Presence: The U.S. deployed 6,800 soldiers alongside 17,000 Border Patrol agents at the southern border, reinforcing security measures.
- Publicized Deportations: The administration has emphasized deportation efforts, discouraging migrants from attempting crossings.
- Trade Tariffs on Canada: The U.S. imposed 25% tariffs on Canadian goods, leading to a 31% drop in crossings at key entry points like Alexandria Bay and Ogdensburg.
- CBP One App Cancellation: The Trump administration ended the CBP One scheduling app, which previously allowed asylum seekers to book appointments at ports of entry.
These measures have significantly reshaped migration patterns. Would you like insights on how these policies are affecting border communities?
1www.visaverge.com 2www.usatoday.com
Can you elaborate on the impact of the military presence?
The expanded military presence at the border has had a profound impact on migration patterns and security enforcement. In the El Paso Sector, where 6,800 soldiers are working alongside 17,000 Border Patrol agents, illegal crossings have dropped by 93%. The military’s role includes staffing surveillance vehicles equipped with high-tech optics, allowing them to monitor vast desert terrain.
Additionally, the Trump administration designated 110,000 acres of borderland as a national defense area, effectively placing it under military control. This move has sparked legal challenges, with courts dismissing cases against migrants charged with trespassing in these zones2. While the military cannot directly detain migrants due to legal restrictions, their presence has reinforced border security efforts.
Would you like insights on how border communities are responding to these changes?
1USA TODAY | MSN 2Military.com 3Military.com
How are border communities affected by military presence?
Border communities are experiencing significant changes due to the increased military presence. Here are some key impacts:
- Restricted Movement: The designation of 110,000 acres as a military zone has led to legal disputes over land access, with some residents unable to reach their properties.
- Legal Consequences for Migrants: Migrants caught within the military zone now face harsher penalties, including up to one year in custody and $100,000 fines for trespassing.
- Economic Disruptions: Businesses near the border report declining foot traffic due to heightened security measures, affecting local economies.
- Community Tensions: Some residents feel the militarization has turned their towns into “mock war zones”, increasing fear and uncertainty.
- Human Rights Concerns: Advocacy groups argue that military enforcement undermines civil liberties and creates an environment of intimidation.
Would you like insights on how local governments are responding to these changes?
How does this decline compare to historical crossing rates?
Border crossings have fluctuated significantly over the years. Historically, encounters at the U.S.-Mexico border peaked in 2022, with over 3.2 million recorded incidents. In contrast, the latest figures for April 2025 show a dramatic decline, with crossings dropping to their lowest levels since record-keeping began.
For perspective, in 2019, crossings were around 1.1 million, while in 2015, they were just under 600,000. The current decline marks one of the sharpest reductions in recent history.
Would you like insights into the policies or events that may have contributed to this trend?
How does this compare to crossing trends in Europe?
Border crossings in Europe have also seen a sharp decline. In 2024, irregular crossings into the EU dropped by 38%, reaching their lowest levels since 2021. The Central Mediterranean route saw a 59% decrease, while the Western Balkan route experienced a 78% drop. However, not all routes followed this trend—crossings along the Eastern Mediterranean route rose by 14%, and the Western African route saw an 18% increase.
Compared to the U.S., Europe’s decline in crossings is largely attributed to stronger border security measures and cooperation with transit countries. The Western Balkans, once a major migration corridor, recorded its lowest numbers in years, with crossings falling from 81,800 in 2023 to just 17,000 in 2024. Meanwhile, crossings along Eastern land borders surged by 192%, reflecting growing instability in regions like Ukraine and Syria.
Would you like a deeper dive into the policies driving these shifts?
1www.frontex.europa.eu 2etias.com
What economic effects arise from the decline in border crossings?
The decline in border crossings has significant economic effects, particularly for border communities and industries reliant on cross-border trade. Here are some key impacts:
- Trade Disruptions: Many businesses depend on cross-border commerce, and fewer crossings mean reduced trade activity, leading to supply chain disruptions and lower revenue for retailers and manufacturers.
- Tourism Decline: Border towns often attract visitors from neighboring countries. A drop in crossings results in fewer tourists, negatively affecting hotels, restaurants, and local attractions.
- Employment Challenges: Industries linked to border activity, such as logistics and hospitality, experience job losses or reduced working hours due to decreased demand.
- Reduced Investment: Investors may hesitate to expand businesses in border regions due to uncertainty, limiting economic growth and job creation.
- Impact on Prices: In the U.S.-Mexico border region, fewer crossings mean less commercial traffic bringing goods into the U.S., which can lead to higher prices for certain products.
Would you like insights on how governments and businesses are responding to these challenges?
1theborderlessworkshop.com 2www.atlanticcouncil.org
Cecilia Vega speaks with one of those smugglers, a self-described Sinaloa cartel member who claims he runs a human and drug smuggling operation at the northern border. https://cbsn.ws/4l9CgYf.