Capital District Times

Congresswoman Elise Stefanik recently visited the Champlain Port of Entry and Border Patrol facility to address the crisis at the Northern Border caused by what she calls "failed Far Left open border policies." During her visit, she met with Border Patrol Agents and discussed the impact of illegal crossings in the Swanton Sector.

Stefanik expressed her concerns in a statement, blaming the surge in illegal crossings on the policies of Joe Biden, Chuck Schumer, and Kathy Hochul. She emphasized the need for more resources and support for Border Patrol and CBP agents, stating, "While Far Left Democrats continue to incentivize this crisis they created, Republicans are fighting to secure our border and ensure our agents and officers have the resources they need to keep us safe."

National Border Patrol Council Local 2724 President Brandon Budlong commended Stefanik for her support, noting that the crisis at the border extends beyond the southern border to the northern border as well.

In response to the ongoing situation, Stefanik previously voted for the Secure the Border Act, which aims to increase the number of Border Patrol agents, enhance border enforcement technology, resume border wall construction, strengthen the asylum process, and end the catch and release policy.

The U.S. Border Patrol Swanton Sector reported a significant increase in apprehensions in Fiscal Year 2023, surpassing the numbers from the previous 11 years combined. The trend has continued into Fiscal Year 2024, with the sector making twice as many apprehensions in the first four months compared to the early 2023 surge.

Stefanik's visit and statements come amidst ongoing debates and concerns regarding border security and immigration policies. More information about her visit can be found on her official website.