Arizona Lawmakers Rally Behind ‘Remain in Mexico Act’

Republican Congressmen from Arizona—Andy Biggs, Abe Hamadeh, and Eli Crane—have joined forces to co-sponsor the REMAIN in Mexico Act, introduced by freshman Congressman Brandon Gill from Texas. This legislation aims to reinforce the immigration policies initially promoted by President Trump, garnering support from 77 additional Republican colleagues.

The “Remain in Mexico” policy, formally known as the Migrant Protection Protocols, originated in January 2019. It enabled federal authorities to return certain asylum-seeking individuals to Mexico while awaiting their immigration hearings. According to Gill, the proposed bill mandates that the Secretary of Homeland Security reinstate these protocols based on 2019 policy guidelines.

Gill stated that the previous administration’s strategy significantly decreased illegal crossings and fraudulent asylum claims. He criticized the Democratic-led rescinding of these policies in 2021, arguing it led to a surge in unlawful entries and an increased threat to public safety. “This must end now,” Gill asserted, emphasizing the need for Congress to act decisively to restore border security.

In remarks to AZ Free News, Rep. Crane described the legislation as a necessary measure to ensure the safety of American citizens. He lamented what he sees as a lack of commitment from some leaders to prioritize border security and expressed pride in co-sponsoring a bill that he believes puts the interests of Americans first.

The REMAIN in Mexico Act has gained traction, with over 80 Republican co-sponsors already on board. In a recent interview, Gill expressed hope that some Democrats might also support the bill, although he remains confident it could pass with or without bipartisan backing.

Rep. Hamadeh echoed similar sentiments, promoting the bill as essential for enhancing community safety and recalling the security of policies implemented during the Trump administration.

As discussions around immigration reform continue, the REMAIN in Mexico Act appears poised to become a focal point in the legislative agenda for many Republican lawmakers.

Matthew Holloway is a reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.