The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas recently testified before the House Judiciary Committee, maintaining that the U.S. border is not open. This comes amid a significant surge in illegal immigration since President Biden’s administration began. Mayorkas’ claim was met with skepticism from Republican lawmakers who point to a record-breaking influx of illegal migrants, with totals exceeding 5 million. Questions have arisen concerning the number of immigrants allowed to stay and future limits. GOP members further criticized the ‘Mayorkas doctrine’ which advocates for leniency towards individuals crossing the border illegally. Despite Mayorkas’ claims, U.S. Customs and Border Protection data show over 1.7 million southwest land border encounters this fiscal year. Amid these controversies, the Biden administration’s approach to border security continues to face intense scrutiny.
