Staff Reports
In the aftermath of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, our nation came together in a resolve to ensure the safety of all Americans. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) was born out of that need for protection and vigilance. Its mission has never wavered: to defend our homeland, prevent acts of terrorism, and protect the American people. The actions of DHS today continue to align with this founding mission, as they strive to create a safer environment for everyone in the United States.
The accomplishments of DHS under President Trump, especially during his second term, have been noteworthy. During this period, there was a remarkable 96% decline in daily encounters along the southern border when compared to the daily averages under the Biden administration. This decrease marked a significant milestone, rolling back the trends that had put so many Americans on edge. For ten consecutive months, not a single illegal alien has been released into the interior of the U.S. This steadfast approach has resulted in the lowest levels of border apprehensions ever recorded, a major win for national security.
This administration’s focus on strict enforcement has led to nearly three million illegal aliens leaving the United States as a result of ongoing efforts. This figure includes those who left voluntarily as well as those who were detained and deported. The majority of those apprehended had criminal records, making their removal from the country an essential step in protecting the safety of all citizens. Additionally, DHS has taken action against over 1,500 known and suspected terrorists and more than 7,700 gang members, many of whom had entered under previous relaxed border policies.
Recent figures indicate a decline in dangerous activities at the border. Fentanyl trafficking has been cut by over 56%, protecting communities from this deadly drug crisis. With the help of the Coast Guard, enough cocaine was seized to save the lives of more than 193 million Americans, preventing drugs from reaching our streets. Over the last year, the total interdiction efforts have been credited with stopping 1.7 billion lethal doses of drugs, ensuring that our future generations remain safe.
However, DHS’s dedication comes at a price. The work of ICE officers is often met with hostility, resulting in a whopping 8,000% increase in death threats against them. Despite the escalating risks, these true heroes continue to enforce the laws that we, as a nation, have put in place. Unfortunately, partisan politics have further complicated their responsibilities, with a Democrat-led shutdown of DHS jeopardizing national security and safety efforts. More than 100,000 diligent DHS employees are facing financial uncertainty, being asked to work without pay for the third time in just five months.
In conclusion, the Department of Homeland Security remains a cornerstone of American safety and security. The commitment of its employees to protect our nation is commendable, especially in the face of adversity. As political wrangling continues, the focus must remain on supporting those who work tirelessly to keep our world safe, for they are truly at the forefront of defending our homeland.
