U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reports a significant decrease in “gotaways,” with a daily average of 77 over the past 21 days—a 95% reduction from the previous administration’s figures.
“Gotaways” refer to individuals observed illegally crossing the border without apprehension. Under the prior administration, the daily average was 1,837, totaling 670,674 in fiscal year 2023.
President Trump’s recent policies, emphasizing strict border enforcement, have contributed to this decline. A senior Department of Homeland Security official noted, “Delivering consequences has results. Illegal crossings are down, gotaways are down. Daily reports of large groups in Mexico, Guatemala, turning back south and surrendering to authorities, requesting to go home, and we have only just begun. Policy matters.”
The administration’s measures include increased ICE arrests and deportations, reduced asylum access for illegal crossers, and enhanced border security. These actions have led to a notable drop in illegal crossings, with some migrants choosing to turn back.
