Migrant Caravan Forms in Southern Mexico Amid Political Changes
In southern Mexico, approximately 1,500 migrants have banded together to form a caravan, hoping to traverse the harsh terrain en route to the United States before newly elected President Donald Trump takes office in January. The anticipation surrounding Trump’s administration brings a palpable fear among migrants, as he is expected to enforce stricter measures on illegal crossings, a phenomenon that has surged during the Biden-Harris administration.
The Journey Through Tapachula
The caravan, primarily comprised of men, women, and children from Central and South America, moved through Tapachula, a city located close to the Guatemalan border, on Wednesday. This location serves as a crucial waypoint for thousands of migrants who find themselves stranded due to lacking the necessary permissions to continue their journey through Mexico.
For the determined individuals within this caravan, the journey to the southernmost point of the U.S. border—the crossing at Matamoros near Brownsville, Texas—poses a significant challenge. Estimates suggest a desperate adult migrant would need to walk relentlessly for around 16 days to reach their destination. However, it remains unclear exactly where this caravan intends to cross into the United States.
Safety in Numbers
Migrants often travel in caravans, believing that there is safety in numbers. This strategy can complicate the efforts of immigration agents, making it harder to detain large groups. While some individuals are hoping to hitch rides to aid their journey, others are committed to braving the punishing journey on foot, facing searing heat and exhaustion.
“It is going to be more difficult. That’s why we are going in hopes of getting an appointment quicker so we are able to cross before he (Trump) takes office,” remarked Yotzeli Peña, a 23-year-old migrant from Venezuela, in an interview with the Associated Press. “That would be easier.”
Trump’s Anticipated Policies
As the situation intensifies, Trump has made it clear he intends to take rigorous measures to “seal” the southern border, in response to the unprecedented influx of migrants into the U.S. over the past few years. He plans to initiate the largest deportation operation in U.S. history with a cabinet that includes notable hardliners like South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem as Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security and Tom Homan as the new “Border Czar.”
Moreover, Trump has expressed his intention to abolish the parole programs established by the Biden administration that offer expanded “lawful pathways” for migrants. This anticipated crackdown raises concerns about what will happen at the border in the coming months.
Decline in Border Numbers
Despite the fears of an impending surge, statistics reveal that border encounters had significantly dropped by September—only 101,790 encounters were reported, marking the lowest figure since February 2021. The dramatic decline came after President Biden signed a proclamation that limited the number of arrivals permitted into the U.S.
However, while current numbers may be lower than those seen in previous months, immigration experts warn that the change in administration could incite a rush at the border as migrants aim to secure entry before a newly perceived stricter regime takes hold.
Efforts to Stave Off Crowds
In an effort to manage the situation at the southern border, the federal government expanded the areas where migrants could apply for appointments to enter the U.S. using the CBP One cellphone app, a system initially limited to northern and central Mexico. The app has been extended to Tapachula, as officials hoped to curb the flow of people traveling northward.
Despite this, many migrants believe staying close to the border is crucial. This proximity ensures they are ready to respond quickly should they receive an appointment to cross into the U.S., minimizing the risks of missing such opportunities.
Desperation Fuels Determination
“They’re determined to make it into the U.S., one way or the other, because they’ve sold everything; they have nothing to go back to,” states Auden Cabello, an independent journalist who has extensively documented the ongoing border crisis.
Looking Ahead
The situation remains fluid as the caravan embarks on its journey, each member driven by their unique circumstances and aspirations for a better life. As January approaches and the political landscape shifts, the eyes of both the U.S. and Mexico will be keenly observing how these events unfold and what actions will be taken at the border.
Fox News’ Adam Shaw, Michael Lee, and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
