New data reveals a dramatic decrease in migrant encounters at the U.S.-Mexico border since former President Donald Trump's return to the presidency. In the week immediately following his inauguration (January 20-26), border authorities recorded 7,287 encounters, averaging roughly 1,041 per day. This represents a substantial decline compared to the 20,086 encounters, or 2,869 per day, during the final week of the Biden administration (January 13-19).

This translates to a drop of over 63% in border encounters. Upon assuming office, President Trump declared a national emergency at the border, implemented expulsions of migrants without asylum consideration, and discontinued the Biden administration's use of the CBP One app for scheduling entry appointments. These actions appear to be contributing to the reduced numbers at both official ports of entry and among those attempting illegal crossings.

Reports indicate a remarkably low number of illegal crossings. On one Sunday, fewer than 600 illegal entries were recorded, with no single border sector exceeding 200 crossings. The Del Rio sector, which experienced over 4,000 daily crossings during the peak of the 2023 border crisis, recorded only 60 crossings on that day.

In addition to deploying the military to the border and resuming wall construction, President Trump has terminated additional parole programs, including those for individuals from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. A large-scale deportation initiative is also underway, with daily arrests exceeding 1,000 in sanctuary cities like Boston and New York City.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem recently led a raid in New York City, resulting in the apprehension of individuals described as "dirtbags," including an undocumented immigrant facing kidnapping, assault, and burglary charges.