Wed Feb 19 00:23:00 UTC 2025: ## Trump’s Immigration Crackdown Yields Sharp Drop in Border Crossings

**Washington, February 19, 2025** – Arrests for illegal border crossings from Mexico plummeted by 39 percent in January, marking the lowest level since May 2020, according to US Customs and Border Protection. The dramatic decrease, attributed by the White House to the “Trump effect,” saw border patrol agents making only 21,593 arrests compared to 47,316 in December.

While arrests had been falling since December 2023, the implementation of President Trump’s immigration policies, including a suspension of asylum based on a declaration of national invasion at the southern border, appears to have significantly accelerated the decline. The administration even points to a 24-hour period with only 229 arrests, a record low according to former Border Patrol Chief Tom Homan.

The administration is not aiming for merely a decrease in illegal crossings, but a complete cessation. Border Patrol Chief Michael Banks stated his goal is to achieve “operational control” of the border, meaning the apprehension of every illegal crosser. To bolster these efforts, Homeland Security launched a multi-million dollar ad campaign warning potential illegal immigrants of the consequences.

Despite the significant drop, it’s worth noting that border arrests were already decreasing before Trump’s inauguration due to increased Mexican border enforcement and stricter asylum restrictions implemented under the previous administration. However, the recent figures represent a clear indication of the impact of the current administration’s hardline immigration stance.

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