Boulder suspect overstayed visa, raising Biden immigration policy concerns

The recent terror attack in Boulder, Colorado, has sparked renewed national security concerns surrounding immigration policies under the Biden administration. The suspect, Mohamed Sabry Soliman, a 45-year-old Egyptian national, entered the United States through Los Angeles International Airport in August 2022 on a tourist visa that expired in February 2023. Despite overstaying his visa, Soliman was granted a work permit by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services in March 2023, which was valid until March 2025.

The tragic attack, which resulted in eight injuries, took place during a peaceful rally in support of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. Witnesses reported that Soliman shouted anti-Israeli sentiments as he carried out the attack, further underscoring the severity of the incident. One of the victims is reported to be a Holocaust survivor, adding a chilling layer of trauma to an already horrific event.

In response to the attack, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller criticized the Biden administration for its handling of immigration policies, calling for a reversal of what he referred to as “suicidal migration.” Miller’s remarks highlight a growing concern among lawmakers and officials regarding the potential security risks posed by lax immigration enforcement.

The attack has reignited calls for stricter immigration policies, with some lawmakers pointing to the need for mass deportation efforts and increased border security measures. The reconciliation bill, which aims to codify elements of the Trump administration’s immigration policies, has gained renewed attention in the wake of the Boulder incident.

While the Boulder suspect did not enter the country through the southern border, officials have previously warned of the potential terror risks associated with a lack of proper immigration enforcement at ports of entry. A House Judiciary Committee report from October 2024 raised concerns about the national security implications of the high flow of migrants entering the country.

As the investigation into the Boulder terror attack continues, policymakers and officials are grappling with the broader implications for immigration policy and national security. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of maintaining robust immigration enforcement measures to protect the safety and security of all Americans.