The president Donald Trump reported on Tuesday that during his term, there has been a dramatic reduction in illegal crossings through the southern border of the United States, which "fell by 94% in March" compared to the same month last year.
“Crossings at the southwest border in March fell to their lowest level in U.S. history, a 94% decrease compared to March last year under President Biden. Thanks to President Trump's leadership, Border Patrol agents are once again doing the job they were hired to do,” stated the president's team on X.
The data does not match the most recent figures from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), but they are close.
CBP notes that in March there were approximately 28,000 encounters at the border, compared to over 256,000 recorded in the same month of the previous year, representing a decline of 89%.
The border czar, Tom Homan, also emphasized the impact of the new measures: “We have secured the border. Crossings have dropped by 96%.” Homan attributed this change to the support of the U.S. military to border agents, which has strengthened surveillance and deterred undocumented immigrants.
In an unexpected turn of events, it has been reported that human traffickers are offering “return packages,” services that facilitate the self-deportation of migrants.
The White House indicates that this trend is a result of the implementation of the CBP Home app, which streamlines the voluntary return process.
Additionally, a viral video showing more than 200 migrants being transferred to a prison in El Salvador has sparked fear among those attempting to cross illegally.
Meanwhile, the city of Rochester, New York, has been at the center of controversy after a video surfaced showing local police officers assisting Border Patrol during a traffic stop, despite Rochester having sanctuary laws for migrants.
The head of the Rochester Police Department, David Smith, clarified that his staff should not be stopping or transporting migrants in cooperation with federal authorities. However, Homan defended the agents involved and criticized sanctuary policies: “These policies put our police and the public at risk. Help is on the way.”
A recent CBS News/YouGov poll reveals that 58% of Americans approve of the mass deportation program, highlighting the importance of immigration in the electoral landscape of the U.S.
With these figures and the decrease in illegal crossings, the immigration issue remains a key factor in the political debate, with Trump and his allies highlighting their policies as the effective solution to the crisis at the border.
Frequently Asked Questions about Trump’s Migration and Border Policies
Why has there been a 94% drop in illegal crossings into the U.S.?
The 94% drop in illegal crossings into the U.S. is attributed to the immigration policies implemented by the Trump administration, which include the use of the military to strengthen border surveillance and the implementation of the CBP Home app to facilitate self-deportation. These measures have discouraged many immigrants from attempting to cross illegally.
What is the impact of Trump's immigration policies on Cuban migrants?
Trump's immigration measures have led to a significant decrease in the crossings of Cuban migrants, with a 93% drop in the early months of 2025. Restrictive policies, such as the ending of humanitarian parole and the tightening of border controls, have reduced irregular entry opportunities for Cubans.
What role does the CBP Home app play in Trump's immigration policy?
The CBP Home app allows immigrants to notify their voluntary departure from the U.S., providing an organized process for those in irregular situations. This tool aims to optimize resources and facilitate self-deportation, presenting itself as an alternative before facing forced deportation.
How have human rights organizations reacted to Trump's policies?
Human rights organizations have criticized Trump's policies for being inhumane and dangerous for vulnerable migrants. These policies have sparked controversy, particularly due to mass deportations and the treatment of undocumented migrants.
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