TOM PATTERSON: Effective Strategies for Encouraging Illegal Immigrants to Return Home

By Dr. Thomas Patterson |

The Biden-Harris administration’s conclusion has sparked intense debate over its transfer of power. Billions of unallocated COVID funds were redirected to George Soros and other leftist organizations, raising questions about intent and accountability.

Policies enacted during this period have drawn scrutiny. The decision to sell the border wall at reduced prices, coupled with restrictions on offshore oil drilling and unauthorized student loan forgiveness, signified a shift in governance. Notably, previous objections toward immigration enforcement have led to a significant surge in illegal border crossings.

Recent analysis shows a dramatic reduction in daily crossings, contradicting earlier claims that more funding and legislation were necessary. The successors of the Biden-Harris team have managed to almost eliminate illegal crossings, highlighting the effectiveness of stricter policies.

Public sentiment remains divided. While some advocate for the humane treatment of undocumented immigrants, claiming they seek better lives, incidents like the swift relocation of asylum seekers from Martha’s Vineyard reflect underlying contradictions. These individuals are not necessarily the traditional immigrants of past generations; current trends indicate a dependence on state resources rather than a commitment to integration.

As the demands on welfare systems heighten, cities such as New York are witnessing increased pressure on existing programs. Former President Trump has made border security a pivotal issue within his campaign, asserting the need to close borders and reduce illegal immigration. His administration saw a notable decrease in border breaches, yet reversing the trends remains challenging.

Recent data indicate that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has deported approximately 65,000 individuals, largely prioritizing those with criminal records. Without a comprehensive approach, the pace of deportations will fall short, potentially addressing only a fraction of the estimated illegal population.

An alternative strategy could center on reducing incentives for illegal immigration. Addressing welfare benefits granted to undocumented individuals might deter further crossings, while allowing home countries to benefit from the return of their working-age citizens.

Job access presents a more complex challenge. The federal E-Verify system has struggled to effectively prevent illegal employment, often due to employer preferences for cheaper labor. To mitigate the influx of unskilled workers, collaboration with Congress to enforce E-Verify is essential.

Ultimately, the will to implement these changes could serve as a foundation for a more sustainable immigration policy. The goal should be to cultivate an environment where those who violate laws do not receive undue benefits, fostering respect for legal immigration pathways.

Dr. Thomas Patterson, a retired emergency physician and former Chairman of the Goldwater Institute, has a history of public service, including a decade as an Arizona State senator. He authored Arizona’s original charter schools bill.