As President Joe Biden and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas approach the conclusion of their tenure on January 20, Mayorkas’ border policies remain a significant point of contention. Reports indicate that by then, approximately 1.5 million illegal migrants will have entered the U.S. through parole programs established under Mayorkas’ leadership.
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) data reveals that nearly 936,500 individuals entered the U.S. via the CBP One app since its introduction in January 2023. Additionally, 531,690 migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela were granted parole under specific programs, bypassing traditional immigration protocols. Critics argue that the parole programs, designed for emergency cases, have been exploited to accommodate large-scale economic migration.
Since 2022, congressional Republicans have been unable to effectively block funding for the inflow, as internal GOP divisions and Democratic unity stymied efforts to counter Mayorkas’ policies. Meanwhile, his initiatives have facilitated the arrival of over 8 million migrants, including legalized and quasi-legal entrants.
Mayorkas’ approach has drawn criticism for its impact on American workers and communities. The influx of labor has suppressed wages, increased housing costs by approximately 20%, and contributed to rising homelessness. HUD data highlights an 18% increase in homelessness from 2023 to 2024, with 771,480 individuals affected.
Moreover, the policy has encouraged reliance on foreign labor in industries such as technology, where H-1B visa holders often replace skilled U.S. workers. Observers argue that this reduces incentives for workplace automation and stifles economic competitiveness.
While Mayorkas claims his policies promote equity and economic growth, opponents highlight significant humanitarian and security concerns. Thousands of migrants have died en route to the U.S., while others face exploitation or abuse upon arrival. Additionally, increased migration has strained local resources and exacerbated challenges in migrant-saturated communities like Springfield, Ohio.
Internationally, Mayorkas’ policies have drawn criticism for facilitating brain drain from countries like Haiti, where vital professionals such as teachers and doctors have emigrated. This dynamic undermines local stability and economic development while indirectly supporting oppressive regimes through remittances.
The controversy surrounding Mayorkas’ tenure played a key role in the 2024 presidential election, where Donald Trump defeated Vice President Kamala Harris. Trump’s victory is seen as a repudiation of the Biden administration’s immigration policies and signals growing public dissatisfaction with large-scale migration.
Looking ahead, Trump faces pressure to reverse Mayorkas’ initiatives, balancing demands from the electorate and influential stakeholders. As public sentiment shifts against pro-migration policies, the future of U.S. immigration remains uncertain.
Mayorkas, reflecting on his time in office, described his work as a source of “tremendous pride,” emphasizing his commitment to “operational control” of the border and the values of the nation. However, critics contend that his policies prioritized foreign interests and investors over American citizens, leaving a contentious legacy as he exits his role.
