This article was posted by CNN in February of 2023 and covers a new use of immigration policy. As the Biden administration is faced with the possible expiration of the Title 42 policy, one solution that they are exploring is the deportation of non-Mexican immigrants to Mexico. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) refutes the idea of “mass deportation” to Mexico but acknowledges that the United States is cooperating with the Mexican government to receive those who are removed after crossing the US border illegally. Statements issued by the DHS in January reference Mexico accepting deported individuals when the Title 42 restrictions lapse.
The general idea presented by the story is that the United States is experiencing a high rate of immigration that is putting the government under considerable financial strain. It also highlights how the Biden administration has leaned on the policies enacted by the previous administration but are taking steps forward to improve the immigration process on the side of the federal government. The article overwhelmingly discusses the perspective of the involved government agencies and how the new approach improves their side of the immigration process. There is a very brief mention of immigrant advocates and their rejection of the enforcement measures at the end of the article, but there is very little elaboration and they do not address it thoroughly. Overall, the tone that the journalist uses is neutral and not overly in favor of a certain ideal, however the limited information shared solidifies this article as being primarily about the government’s actions.
There is very little quantitative evidence present in the article, but there is reference to some vague numbers that could be expanded upon. Some data that could be looked at is how immigration rates have changed because of certain actions under the Biden administration. Also, how the financial needs of the DHS have changed due to immigration recently, especially as the article emphasizes the resource strain. Since there are quite a few numbers presented (e.g. lower border encounter numbers, thousands of migrant applications) there is value in contextualizing that information and showing tangible change.
The qualitative evidence used in the article is primarily statements made by government officials/organizations. Primarily, quotes from President Joe Biden and from an official representing the Department of Homeland Security to CNN. These quotes are used to explain the goals and intent behind the actions taken by governmental agencies. Some additions that could be helpful are more information from different agencies, or perhaps statements from the Mexican government themselves about the issues surrounding immigration. Also, speaking to immigrant advocates who are against the enforcement policies to explore what aspects of the administrations measures are being challenged.
I think that the writer’s use of evidence is rather weak in terms of addressing the topic thoroughly, but the article does a good job of presenting the key ideas regarding the Biden administration’s choices. Some of the class themes that this article relates to are push and pull factors, and the effect of government instability on immigration. Some of the significant groups seeking immigration right now are suffering due to bad conditions at home while waiting for asylum, and it can be very beneficial to not be returned to their home country during the application process. The article also mentions how strained relations between governments affects where deported people are being sent, for example how the US is being prevented from deporting Cubans, Venezuelans, and Nicaraguans back to their respective countries. Because of this, they claim that higher amounts of immigrants from these countries are seeking to cross the border, like the ways that Cubans had in the first half of the 20th century.
Source
“Biden administration considers deporting non-Mexican migrants to Mexico” CNN 9 February 2023.
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