Panhandle Times

EAGLE PASS, TEXAS – Congressman Nathaniel Moran (TX-01) has called for urgent action to address the crisis at the southern border, emphasizing the need for operational control and enhanced long-term border security. Speaking after visiting the border in Eagle Pass, Texas, Moran highlighted the urgency of the situation and stressed the importance of seizing the current opportunity during the appropriations process.

"There is a crisis at our southern border that is affecting not only Texans, but every American. And, we have an obligation as a nation to address this crisis with urgency and unwavering resolve," said Congressman Nathaniel Moran. "I am dedicated to working with my colleagues in Congress to see that operational control over our border is restored quickly. We have an opportunity now, during the appropriations process, to ensure that long-term border security is enhanced. We do not need to miss this opportunity."

During his visit to Eagle Pass, Congressman Moran met with various law enforcement officials and frontline personnel, including Homeland Security Investigators, Border Patrol Agents, local law enforcement, members of the National Guard, and officers with the Texas Department of Public Safety. The firsthand accounts and experiences shared by these individuals further emphasized the failures of the current administration's policies and the need for immediate corrective measures.

An example of the challenges faced at the border was seen during the tour of a border processing facility in Eagle Pass. Built to accommodate 1,000 individuals, the facility was currently housing nearly 4,600 people, with hundreds more arriving every hour. This overcrowding highlights the overwhelming strain on resources and the urgent need for effective border control.

Furthermore, Homeland Security Investigators informed Congressman Moran that in the first fiscal year of the Biden Administration, border activity surpassed the previous nine years combined. Individuals from 98 different countries, including 27 countries with ties to terrorism, crossed the border in the Del Rio sector alone. These alarming statistics underscore the national security implications of the border crisis.

"The unchecked flow of illegal immigrants poses significant threats to national security, strains our resources, and exploits vulnerable individuals. We must work swiftly and decisively to protect the American people from the adverse effects of illegal immigration," stated Congressman Moran. "I will work diligently for enhanced border security measures, including increased funding for additional personnel, technology, and infrastructure to effectively prevent further illegal border crossings and drug smuggling."

The surge in migration since President Biden took office has been unprecedented. Over 3.8 million people have entered the United States through the borders, with at least 1.5 million individuals slipping through undetected as "gotaways." Additionally, 151 individuals on the terror watch list have been identified, surpassing the total from FY17-FY20 combined.

The Biden Administration's immigration policies have been widely criticized for exacerbating the crisis. Since taking office, President Biden has issued 94 executive actions on immigration, including halting the construction of the border wall and rescinding the successful "Remain in Mexico" policy. These decisions have contributed to the increase in catch-and-release migrants, with over 40% of them disappearing.

The Mexican cartels have emerged as the biggest beneficiaries of this humanitarian crisis. It is estimated that they make $13 billion annually by smuggling illegal immigrants through the southern border. The porous border also provides ample opportunities for cartels to smuggle illicit drugs, primarily fentanyl, into the United States. Border patrol has already seized 25,600 pounds of fentanyl this year, surpassing the levels of FY22 by over 10,000 pounds, resulting in a devastating loss of American lives.

The urgent need for action to address the border crisis has become undeniable. Congressman Nathaniel Moran is committed to working with his colleagues in Congress to restore operational control and enhance long-term border security, ensuring the safety and well-being of American citizens.

For more information, please visit:

- [Congressman Nathaniel Moran's Official Website](https://moran.house.gov/)

- [U.S. Customs and Border Protection](https://www.cbp.gov/)

- [Texas Department of Public Safety](https://www.dps.texas.gov/)