Peace Garden News

Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak, representing North Dakota, recently visited the U.S.-Mexico border alongside her fellow House Republicans. The delegation aimed to assess the situation faced by border communities and law enforcement, attributing challenges to policies enacted by the Biden administration. The trip was hosted by Representative Juan Ciscomani from Arizona.

Fedorchak expressed gratitude for Ciscomani's leadership on border security issues, stating, "Thank you to Congressman Ciscomani for hosting me to his district in Arizona and for his leadership on border security." She criticized President Biden's handling of the border crisis, adding that under former President Trump's administration, law enforcement could better focus on their duties: "For the last four years, our law enforcement officers were overwhelmed with processing illegal crossings instead of securing the border."

The group visited several key sites including the Nogales Port of Entry. This location is significant as it is a major crossing point for fruits and vegetables and a primary site for fentanyl seizures. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents there discussed their ongoing efforts to prevent illegal drugs, cash, and firearms from entering while maintaining legitimate trade flow.

At a migrant processing center, Fedorchak noted changes compared to previous conditions: “A year ago, this facility held 1,400 immigrants. Today, it had zero.” She attributed this change to Trump’s policies: "That's because President Trump is enforcing our nation's laws."

During their tour of the Nogales border wall, CBP agents highlighted its role in reducing illegal crossings. According to CBP data presented during the visit, the wall prevents about 95% of crossings.

Additionally, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials briefed the delegation on their work against transnational criminal organizations involved in human trafficking and drug smuggling. Fedorchak commented on these activities: “These organizations are making millions of dollars—if not more—off the suffering of innocent people.”

The visit concluded with discussions on tackling cartel activities that undermine national security efforts at the southern border. Fedorchak praised CBP and ICE agents' dedication: “Our law enforcement officers have been stretched to the brink.”

Fedorchak shared insights from her trip through social media updates and participated in a live radio segment discussing her experiences at the southern border.