President Biden’s reported plan to track migrants with GPS devices in Texas has raised concerns and drawn criticism from the president of the National Border Patrol Council. Brandon Judd stated that the proposed policy would not enhance border security nor assist agents. He suggested that the Biden administration is considering this move in response to complaints from liberal mayors.
The plan, as reported in the Los Angeles Times, involves forcing certain illegal migrant families to remain in Texas by utilizing GPS monitoring devices, such as ankle bracelets. These families would undergo an asylum process to determine their eligibility to stay, and if not, they could be more easily deported due to their proximity to the border. The program would be an expansion of the existing Family Expedited Removal Program, which includes curfews and monitoring for families in large cities.
In response, a spokesperson from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that the administration is committed to expanding safe and orderly pathways for migrants to lawfully enter the United States while imposing consequences for those who fail to utilize these pathways. Since May 2023, the DHS has already removed or returned over 200,000 individuals, including over 17,000 family unit members.
However, critics argue that the reported plan would not address the underlying issues. New York City Mayor Eric Adams, one of the most vocal critics, expressed concern over the influx of migrants, stating that it threatens the city. The plan would theoretically restrict the movements of migrants and prevent Texas from bussing them to other cities, a practice that has exacerbated issues in those areas.
Brandon Judd dismissed the proposed enforcement, stating that ankle bracelets have never been effective and would only waste taxpayer dollars. He also noted that the plan would not help agents because it would not reduce the number of migrants being released into the United States. Additionally, he criticized the move as being politically motivated to appease certain mayors rather than focused on border security.
The reported plan has faced criticism from immigration activists as well, who argue that it is cruel and inhumane towards migrants. Texas Governor Greg Abbott has threatened potential legal action and the transportation of more migrants by buses if the plan moves forward.
Overall, the proposal to track migrants with GPS devices in Texas has ignited debate and concerns among various stakeholders. While the Biden administration claims to be focused on fair and effective immigration processes, critics argue that the plan fails to address the underlying issues and is driven by political considerations rather than substantial border security measures.
