Fiscal Year 2023 saw an unprecedented number of illegal border crossings in the United States, according to data released by the House Committee on Homeland Security. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reported staggering figures for September and the entire fiscal year, highlighting what many are calling a crisis at the nation’s borders. The data underscores the ongoing debate surrounding border security and immigration policies.
In September 2023, the final month of FY23, CBP encountered 269,735 individuals at the Southwest border. This figure represents a significant 86% increase compared to June 2023, a period when the Biden administration had pointed to a decrease in crossings following the end of Title 42. This surge indicates a rapid escalation in illegal border crossings as the fiscal year concluded.
Looking at the broader picture for Fiscal Year 2023, the numbers are equally concerning. CBP recorded over 2.4 million encounters at the Southwest border alone. Nationwide, the total number of encounters exceeded 3.2 million. These figures represent record highs and raise serious questions about border security and control.
Beyond the sheer volume of crossings, security concerns are also mounting. In FY23, 169 individuals on the terrorist watchlist were apprehended while attempting to enter the country illegally. Furthermore, an estimated 1.7 million “gotaways” – individuals who evaded apprehension – have been recorded since FY2021. These statistics highlight potential national security vulnerabilities amidst the influx of illegal border crossings.
Critics argue that the Biden administration’s policies have contributed to the surge in illegal immigration. They point to the increase in monthly apprehensions and encounters as evidence that current strategies are ineffective. The debate continues on how to best address the complex challenges at the border and ensure national security while managing immigration flows.
