Border community tells Trump what it still needs now that crisis has subsided

It’s a new day in Yuma, Arizona, but the work towards long-term security and addressing lingering challenges in the border community continues. Yuma County Supervisor Jonathan Lines highlighted the difficulties faced due to a surge in migrants during the Biden administration, contrasting it with a more controlled situation under former President Trump.

The high influx of migrants has put a strain on resources in Yuma, with hundreds of thousands of encounters recorded in the Yuma sector alone. In February, over 8,000 illegal border crossings were documented by Customs and Border Protection, leading to significant burdens on local services such as the Yuma Regional Medical Center. The hospital faced millions in unpaid medical costs due to the influx of undocumented immigrants seeking care.

One of the major issues plaguing the community is the presence of fentanyl, a dangerous opioid that has caused numerous overdoses and deaths. Lines emphasized the need for stricter consequences for those responsible for trafficking this deadly drug into the United States.

In response to the challenges faced, former Gov. Doug Ducey had implemented temporary measures like metal storage containers to fill gaps in the border wall. However, these were eventually dismantled due to legal challenges. Currently, construction of permanent border wall panels in these gaps is underway following the reversal of Biden’s policies under the Trump administration.

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced the commencement of seven new miles of border wall construction in Yuma to enhance security measures. The region has become a focal point on the 2024 campaign trail, with politicians from across the country recognizing the importance of border security and immigration in the eyes of American voters.

Lines reiterated the widespread impact of illegal immigration and narcotics trafficking on communities across the United States, emphasizing the exhaustion of resources to support affected individuals. The need for comprehensive measures to combat these issues remains critical.

As Yuma continues to address the challenges brought about by the influx of migrants and the presence of dangerous substances like fentanyl, the community remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring long-term security and wellbeing for its residents.