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Shutting Down the Border Would Make the Problem Worse

Shutting Down the Border Would Make the Problem Worse

 

(Arlington, VA) – On Friday, the president indicated that he may shut down the U.S.-Mexico border – “or large sections” of the border – next week.

 

Daniel Garza, President of The LIBRE Initiative, released the following statement:

“Closing the border is not a solution. Border communities, families, and businesses of all sizes benefit from cross-border activity with Mexico. American companies rely on both exporting products and commodities to, and importing different goods from, Mexico. In 2018, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation, bilateral trade between the U.S and Mexico alone accounted for over $500 billion. That activity is the lifeblood of local economies, and it’s important to our national economy.

 

“Shutting down the border would hurt millions of people, and it would also increase pressure for unlawful immigration – as people who can no longer cross legally will be incentivized to cross in violation of our laws. That would put additional pressure on Customs and Border Protection, and other law enforcement authorities. It would make existing enforcement problems worse.

“Where the president is right is that we need to address and update our deeply flawed immigration system. Instead of shutting down the border, it’s time for the White House and Members of Congress to get to work on border security, the legal immigration system, and the undocumented population. We stand ready to work with anyone who is willing to address the problems in the system.”

For interviews with a representative from The LIBRE Initiative, please contact Brian Faughnan, 202-805-1581 or Wadi Gaitan, 202-853-4433

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