Sunday, December 8, 2024

The Miserable Cost of an Open Border

The Biden-Harris approach to U. S. border policy has led to significant changes in American society, many of which may not be fully realized for years. Since 2021, U. S. border officials have had around 10 million encounters with migrants, with possibly up to 15 million new individuals entering the country. This movement of people involves complex logistics, costs billions in smuggler fees, and reflects a mix of suffering and hope. Journalist James O'Keefe examines this migrant surge in his documentary "Line In The Sand," exploring its root causes and the economic dynamics behind it.

O'Keefe's documentary begins at the Mexican border, showing migrants crossing through cut openings in barriers while smugglers taunt O'Keefe and his team. He captures instances where U. S. Border Patrol agents seemingly ignore migrants crossing illegally, highlighting the contradictions of their responsibilities. Border agents, meant to enforce laws, often act as facilitators for undocumented migrants, which creates an awkward situation for them.

To gain deeper insights, O'Keefe travels to Mexico, specifically Irapuato, known for its cargo train that many migrants use to travel north. He documents the dangerous journey on "La Bestia," engaging with the migrants to understand their journeys and concerns while also experiencing the perilous conditions they face. These scenes reveal the personal stories behind the statistics of immigration.

O'Keefe also investigates the broader system of organizations and individuals benefiting from the influx of migrants, including government agencies, transportation companies, and resettlement nonprofits. His inquiries aim to expose hidden networks and profits tied to this significant demographic shift. The film presents moments of humor when following Chinese migrants navigating life in the U. S. , revealing the challenges they encounter, while also confronting the denial of access to certain facilities meant for unaccompanied minors.

Though O’Keefe investigates potential links to troubling practices, the more substantial issue appears to be the humanitarian crisis caused by unaccompanied children entering the U. S. alone. His exploration brings attention to the significant, government-funded child welfare system that has emerged in response to the challenges created by increased migration.

"Line In The Sand" accurately depicts the vast financial operations overseeing this influx and points out the interests of those profiting from it, suggesting that many stakeholders prefer open borders rather than stricter policies. O'Keefe highlights specific cases of alleged fraud by nonprofit organizations, capturing instances of wasteful spending linked to services already available at no cost.

The film raises critical questions about the security of admitting millions of unfamiliar individuals without adequate vetting and the ensuing services provided to them. O’Keefe emphasizes the unusual nature of the current system that allows for this enormous and unregulated flow of migrants.

Overall, "Line In The Sand" offers a raw but important perspective on the complexities surrounding U. S. immigration, aiming to present a multifaceted view of its human elements. Through diligent work, O'Keefe and his team contribute to understanding one of the most pressing stories of the decade. 

https://realclearwire.com/articles/2024/12/06/the_miserable_cost_of_an_open_border_152049.html

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