How immigration and border security dominated 2024 and decided an election

In 2024, immigration and border security were top issues that dominated news coverage and political debate. The U.S. was in the midst of a migrant crisis that had been escalating since 2021, with encounters at the southern border hitting a record high of over 250,000 in December 2023. As the presidential election approached, both candidates focused on presenting themselves as best equipped to handle the crisis.

Former President Donald Trump promised a mass deportation operation if elected, while President Biden touted a decrease in encounters since the start of the year and signed an executive order limiting asylum entries in June. The issue of immigration and border security was at the forefront of the political landscape.

In February, a potential breakthrough emerged with a bipartisan border security bill in the Senate. The bill aimed to increase funding for border agencies, provide emergency authority to shut down entries at the southern border, expedite work permits for migrants, and tighten asylum screening language. However, the bill faced opposition from conservatives and some liberal Democrats.

Throughout the year, there were several high-profile crimes allegedly committed by illegal immigrants, bringing further attention to the issue. These incidents fueled outrage and debate, with conservatives arguing against allowing illegal immigrants into the country.

Vice President Harris, who became the Democratic nominee following President Biden’s decision not to seek re-election, faced scrutiny over her handling of the border crisis and her past immigration views. She was dubbed “the border czar” and faced questions about her support for radical immigration policies during her 2019 presidential campaign.

The Biden administration’s use of humanitarian parole to bring in thousands of migrants also drew criticism, particularly in relation to Haitian migrants affecting communities throughout the U.S. President Trump capitalized on these issues, maintaining a significant lead over Harris on handling the border crisis and illegal immigration.

Ultimately, Trump won the November election, vowing to address the border crisis and other challenges facing the country. The immigration and border security debate continued to be a key issue for voters, shaping the outcome of the election and the future direction of U.S. policy.