A report by the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR), a conservative immigration group, disclosed that the surge in Venezuelan migration at the U.S.-Mexico border can be attributed not only to the economic and political instability in Venezuela but also to the policies of the Biden administration.
According to the FAIR report, obtained by Fox News Digital on Wednesday, the number of Venezuelans apprehended at the border has witnessed a substantial spike, soaring from 50,000 in fiscal year 2021 to a staggering 335,000 in fiscal year 2023. This surge positions Venezuelans as the second most encountered nationality at the border, following Mexicans.
Contrary to the prevailing belief that the Venezuelan migration crisis is primarily fueled by humanitarian concerns within the country, the report argues that the Biden administration’s policies play a significant role. The administration’s measures, aimed at reducing enforcement and increasing incentives for illegal immigration, have allegedly influenced the migration patterns.
The report cites several examples illustrating the impact of Biden’s policies on Venezuelan migration. Notably, the number of encounters reportedly decreased after Mexico, under U.S. pressure, ceased allowing Venezuelans to enter the country visa-free in March 2023. Additionally, the termination of the Title 42 public health order in May 2023, along with the promise of consequences for illegal entry, led to a decline in encounters.
While the administration’s resumption of deportation flights to Venezuela in October 2023 was hailed as a critical deterrent, the report criticizes policies that seemingly encourage more Venezuelans to migrate. The humanitarian parole program, allowing up to 30,000 Venezuelans monthly to enter the U.S. temporarily, and the redesignation of Venezuela for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) are cited as factors contributing to the influx.
The report contends that these policies create a “pull factor” for Venezuelans seeking asylum, irrespective of eligibility or genuine need for protection. It concludes by acknowledging the regrettable situation in Venezuela but argues against allowing countless Venezuelans to permanently settle in the United States.
Furthermore, the report proposes a shift in focus towards promoting political change in Venezuela, advocating for support to the opposition and imposing sanctions on the Maduro regime. It issues a warning that the influx of Venezuelans poses security risks, suggesting affiliation with gangs or terrorist groups, such as Hezbollah and Hamas, known to have ties with Iran and Venezuela.
