Border crossings plunge 93% under Trump administration's new policies

In May 2025, U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced a significant milestone in border enforcement, revealing that no undocumented migrants were released into the country during that month. This achievement is attributed to stringent enforcement policies and strong backing from the Trump administration. Acting Commissioner of Customs and Border Protection, Pete Flores, indicated that this change corresponds with a remarkable 93% decrease in illegal crossings at the U.S.-Mexico border compared to May 2024, where over 62,000 crossings were recorded. This improvement marks the fastest progress in American border security history, showcasing the agency's continued efforts to combat illegal immigration and enhance national safety. The report highlighted that Border Patrol agents encountered approximately 8,725 migrants attempting to cross the border in May 2025, a stark decline from the previous year. This decrease aligns with President Donald Trump's commitment to reducing undocumented immigration, which he emphasized during the 2024 presidential campaign. The administration has implemented various measures, including tariffs on countries like Mexico and Canada, in an effort to control the influx of illegal drugs, particularly fentanyl. The Customs and Border Protection's actions appear to be reinforcing current policies aimed at securing the southern border while ensuring that public safety remains a priority. Additionally, there were discussions within Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) regarding the enforcement of immigration regulations. An internal memo suggested a temporary pause on enforcement operations in certain sectors, potentially affecting the agency's ability to meet deportation quotas. Despite initial hesitations concerning worksite enforcement, officials reaffirmed that identifying illegal employment networks remains a central focus. Overall, the recent reports indicate that the measures taken by the Trump administration have led to a decrease in illegal border crossings at a historic scale. These developments suggest that ongoing initiatives may continue to impact the immigration landscape in the United States, leading to significant policy implications as the administration navigates enforcement and public reaction amid varied political stances on immigration reform.