Border State Lawmaker Reveals 'Drastic' Changes That Could Be Cemented with Major Congressional Action

Border communities have seen sweeping improvements in daily life following decisive policy shifts under the Trump administration, according to Rep. Juan Ciscomani, R-Ariz. Speaking to Fox News Digital, Ciscomani described these changes as "drastic," adding that residents are "very happy with the results."

Data from United States Customs and Border Protection revealed migrant encounters at the border dropped to just over 8,300 in February, marking the lowest monthly figure since record-keeping began. Ciscomani noted that this shift was not only evident in statistics but also felt by his constituents, who live near the border and experience these changes firsthand.

The Trump administration’s approach to border control included dispatching more troops to the southern border, designating cartels and gangs like Tren de Aragua as foreign terrorist groups, and conducting nationwide Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids targeting illegal immigrants suspected of crimes. Ciscomani highlighted that these measures have had tangible effects on border communities, even changing the way residents perceive their own neighborhoods.

Leading an Arizona border trip as Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, Ciscomani is guiding freshman GOP lawmakers through ports of entry, discussions with local authorities, and tours with the National Border Patrol Council. The delegation includes representatives from states such as Utah, North Dakota, Colorado, and West Virginia, demonstrating the breadth of national interest in border issues.

Ciscomani emphasized the importance of permanent legislative fixes to prevent future border crises, citing the millions of migrant encounters during President Biden’s tenure as a cautionary tale. He also touted the Agent Raul Gonzalez Office Safety Act, recently passed in the House, which imposes prison time and potential deportation for those convicted of fleeing authorities within 100 miles of the border. While some Democrats supported the bill, others criticized it as excessive.

Among Ciscomani’s priorities is strengthening the asylum process by raising the credible fear standard and making policies like "Remain in Mexico" permanent. He also sees bipartisan potential, working with Rep. Don Davis, D-N.C., on legislation to enhance detection of illicit drugs at ports of entry by deploying more image technicians.

"Arizona is so unique in so many ways," Ciscomani remarked, stressing the need for lawmakers to understand the distinct challenges faced by his state compared to other border regions. With ongoing congressional efforts, he hopes to solidify the progress made under the Trump administration while addressing unresolved issues through legislative reconciliation.