Since President Donald Trump took office on January 20, 2025, illegal border crossings have fallen significantly. Data shows a 94% decrease, with only 200 crossings reported on February 22, compared to 11,000 daily under President Biden in December 2023. This sharp decline stems from Trump’s immediate actions: executive orders banning asylum, deploying 5,000 troops to the border, and ending “catch and release.” These steps have deterred migrants and disrupted smuggling operations, delivering on Trump’s promise to secure the border.
The administration’s efforts merit recognition. Border Czar Tom Homan, with decades of experience, notes the numbers are the lowest he’s seen. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has enforced policies that have reduced encounters from 141,000 in February 2024 to 15,700 since Trump’s inauguration. Deportations have accelerated, with 7,200 removals in nine days, and Mexico has increased its patrols under U.S. pressure. The drop began post-election, with December crossings down 81%, signaling Trump’s influence even before he took office.
Despite this progress, the border remains vulnerable without a completed wall. The current 700 miles of fencing—438 built in Trump’s first term—have gaps that smugglers exploit with cuts and tunnels. A full physical barrier would solidify these gains. Historical data supports this: Yuma’s 23-mile wall, completed in 2007, cut crossings by 82%. Trump’s March 4 address called for $10 billion to expand the wall, but Congress has not acted. With crossings at a 15-year low, now is the time to invest in a permanent solution. We need a border wall.
Congress must step up. Trump has reduced the border crisis to a manageable level, easing public concerns. However, without funding the wall, these achievements could erode. Ranchers near the border, like Jim Hollis in Texas, still report property issues from the few who cross. The $10 billion proposal is a practical step to ensure long-term security. Congress controls the budget and has the responsibility to support the President’s plan. Delaying risks undoing Trump’s success.
Trump has shown he can control the border with decisive action. His administration has turned a chaotic situation into a clear win. But a half-built wall leaves the job unfinished. Congress needs to fund the $10 billion expansion to protect this progress and honor the public’s demand for a secure border. Trump has done his part—now it’s time for lawmakers to do theirs. Finish the wall.
