When most Americans hear about illegal immigration, they think of problems at the southern border. Since Biden’s time in the White House, the border has gotten significantly out of control with more illegal crossings and other issues.
It doesn’t help matters that the White House has repeatedly undermined the problematic nature of illegal immigration and its ripple effects. Nevertheless, many Americans who live in states along the southern border have gotten a firsthand look at just how troublesome these crossings truly are.
Contrary to popular belief, the southern border is not the only area that’s having problems with illegal immigration. In Vermont, for example, illegal immigration has now started to take its toll, according to Red State.
A Closer Look at Illegal Immigration in Vermont
From October 2022 to December 2022, Vermont saw its rate of illegal immigration increase by a notable 734%. On top of that, the state’s Border Patrol sector is warning of considerable risks that come along with unlawful crossings of this magnitude.
It leaves individuals susceptible to losing their lives after long-term exposure to winter weather. This is somewhat of a parrallel to the dangers of illegal immigration at the southern border as well.
In less than 3 months, Swanton Sector #BorderPatrol Agents have encountered more illegal border crossers than the ENTIRE previous year (FY2022)!
Our Agents are committed to their mission – protecting our homeland.
I am proud of their steadfast determination and vigilance. pic.twitter.com/3J6azNuPuA
— Chief Patrol Agent Robert Garcia (@USBPChiefSWB) December 31, 2022
While crippling cold temperatures aren’t a risk at the southern border, human smugglers, heat exhaustion, animals, and the elements are.
In the North, making the illegal journey from Canada to Vermont could cause the persons in question to freeze, die from frostbite, or otherwise run into serious problems.
Many people aren’t even aware that illegal immigration happens in the North. However, for the communities and officials who are forced to pick up the pieces, the reality is undeniable.
What’s Driving This?
So far, officials believe that Mexican cartels are largely faciliating illegal immigration in the North. This can be as simple as these cartels getting individuals to places like Quebec and then helping them make their way into Vermont.
Unlike many southern border states, Vermont is not set up with various barriers meant to defend against illegal immigration. For this reason, unlawful crossings at the North can fly under the radar more easily and occur to a greater extent.
In less than four months, Swanton Sector’s apprehensions have surpassed the COMBINED two prior years (FY2021-2022). In the face of this adversity, our #BorderPatrol Agents remain steadfast in their portrayal of our ideals: Vigilance, Integrity, & Service to Country. #HonorFirst pic.twitter.com/BqVRnpbDib
— Chief Patrol Agent Robert Garcia (@USBPChiefSWB) January 24, 2023
However, now that there is some public awareness about illegal immigration in Vermont and the driving force behind it, it remains to be seen whether or not officials can employ greater preventative measures.
In the meantime, this should remind everyone that illegal immigration is not mutually exclusive to one area or community.
Are you shocked to learn that illegal immigration is happening in the North, as well as the South? What steps do you believe Vermont can take to help prevent people from illegally crossing the border to gain entry into the United States? We’d love to hear your feedback in the comments area.
This article appeared in The Conservative Brief and has been published here with permission.