Strict immigration measures under US President Donald Trump have significantly reduced migrant crossings near San Luis, Arizona, but residents say the quieter border comes with growing economic challenges.
Former US Border Patrol agent Jason Mercado says the area is now peaceful compared with the large numbers of migrants encountered during Joe Biden’s presidency. Border Patrol agents in the San Luis sector now apprehend fewer than 10 people daily, down from as many as 2,000 a day during the previous administration.
The decline has accelerated under Trump’s tougher immigration policies, which have made asylum claims at the border more difficult and increased enforcement against undocumented migrants.
Some residents have welcomed the changes, saying the earlier influx placed pressure on local hospitals, churches and community organisations. Business owners and farmers, however, are increasingly concerned about rising costs and uncertainty linked to the administration’s wider policies.
Farmworker Ricardo Vasquez says higher diesel prices are squeezing household budgets, while vegetable farmer Mike Pasquinelli warns that rising fuel and fertiliser costs could reduce his profits by around 20% compared with last year.
The region’s logistics industry is also facing difficulties. Businessman Mario Jauregui says changing tariffs and restrictions on commercial vehicle permits have disrupted trade between the United States and Mexico.
With the US midterm elections approaching on 3 November, some traditionally Republican voters say they are reconsidering their political loyalties amid concerns about the economy and trade.
Although Trump’s border crackdown has brought a noticeable reduction in migrant apprehensions in the area, residents remain divided.
Additional reporting AFP