Donald Trump has promised to crack down on illegal immigration when he takes office in January.
But on the border with Mexico, many are doubtful whether his measures will stem the flow of migrants.
– No other president has succeeded. He might be able to reduce it, but to stop it completely? I think it will be very difficult, says Sheriff Tom Schmerber.
In recent years, record numbers of people have entered the US illegally across the border to seek asylum. Last December, nearly 250,000 arrests were made at the border, according to US authorities. In 2024, however, the number has again decreased.
In several of the border towns, the flow of people has long been part of everyday life. Eagle Pass, Texas Sheriff Tom Schmerber explains why.
– The economy is so bad where they come from, so they come here to find a job and get money, he says.
Trump wants to strengthen the border
President-elect Donald Trump has announced a tougher crackdown on illegal immigration. His plans to deport migrants on a large scale have attracted a lot of attention, although the details are still unclear. Trump also wants to strengthen security at the border, including by resuming the construction of a wall against Mexico. Other measures involve expanding the border police’s ability to carry out arrests.
Before the change of power, information from Mexico has indicated that more and more people are expected to try to enter the United States. Criminal groups have therefore raised their prices to smuggle in migrants.
– They want to make sure to make as much money as possible before Trump becomes president and maybe closes the border, says Tom Schmerber.
Doubt among residents
In Eagle Pass, many residents have pinned their hopes on Trump to resolve the situation. But rancher Poncho Nevárez, who lives next to the river, is doubtful that the new president will succeed in stopping people from seeking a new life in the United States.
– I don’t think people care about who is president of the United States and what measures they say they will take. In the end, it is how the situation is in their home countries that will determine what the currents look like, he says.