While the spotlight remains on the border crisis, a quieter but equally concerning issue unfolds within the United States: the systematic weakening of interior immigration enforcement. This crucial aspect of national security, responsible for apprehending individuals who have circumvented border control, overstayed visas, disregarded deportation orders, or pose security risks, is being deliberately undermined.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), under Secretary Mayorkas, has significantly hampered Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the primary agency tasked with upholding immigration laws within the country. Having spent my career within ICE and its predecessor, I've witnessed firsthand the transformation – and decline – of this vital institution.

A 2021 memorandum from Secretary Mayorkas drastically restricted ICE's arrest authority. This directive essentially decriminalized illegal entry, focusing solely on individuals convicted of serious offenses. This approach ignores the inherent illegality of unauthorized border crossings (as defined in Title 8, USC 1325) and disregards the potential for future criminal activity. By waiting for convictions before taking action, ICE is prevented from proactively addressing potential threats.

Mayorkas's stance, that simply being in the country illegally isn't grounds for arrest, effectively overrides established immigration law. This disregard for Congressional authority has paralyzed ICE operations, resulting in historically low arrest and deportation numbers. This directly correlates with the surge in illegal border crossings, highlighting the critical role of interior enforcement.

Further hindering ICE's efforts is the proliferation of sanctuary jurisdictions. Despite claiming that arresting serious criminals is a priority, the Biden administration has allowed states, counties, and cities to obstruct ICE operations, often refusing access to jails holding illegal immigrants. This, coupled with the release of criminals by some prosecutors, further jeopardizes public safety.

The current border crisis is not a failure of policy, but a consequence of deliberate design. The Biden administration's approach is achieving its intended outcome: weakening immigration enforcement and facilitating increased illegal immigration. This systematic dismantling of ICE poses a serious threat to national security and public safety.