Migrants Told By Traffickers To Cross Border Before Trump Takes Office

Human traffickers are urging migrants to cross the U.S.-Mexico border illegally before President-elect Donald Trump assumes office in January. Using messaging platforms like WhatsApp, smugglers have told migrants, “It’s now or never,” warning that the incoming administration will make illegal crossings far more difficult, according to the Wall Street Journal.

These traffickers, who often work for criminal cartels, have highlighted Trump’s plans to enforce stricter immigration policies immediately upon taking office. The messages have also sarcastically wished migrants “luck” at evading capture once these changes are implemented.

Trump has vowed to prioritize immigration enforcement, including reinstating the “Remain in Mexico” policy, deploying National Guard troops to the border, and resuming border wall construction. He also plans to reintroduce Title 42, a policy that allows border officials to quickly expel migrants without processing asylum claims.

Mexican law enforcement has reportedly warned migrants against attempting the journey, but many remain undeterred. U.S. border officials are bracing for an increase in crossings as migrants rush to beat the clock before Trump’s policies are in place.

Texas, under Gov. Greg Abbott (R), has increased border security by deploying additional law enforcement personnel. These measures aim to manage any potential surge and prevent illegal crossings in anticipation of stricter federal policies.

The traffickers’ warnings reflect the anticipated impact of Trump’s immigration reforms. His administration is expected to reverse many of the Biden administration’s policies, which critics claim contributed to record levels of illegal immigration.

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