Vice President JD Vance, along with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, is set to visit the U.S.-Mexico border in Eagle Pass, Texas. This visit aims to highlight the Trump administration’s immigration policies, which have reportedly led to a significant decrease in illegal border crossings. The itinerary includes a visit to Shelby Park, a municipal greenspace along the Rio Grande that Governor Greg Abbott seized from federal authorities in a dispute with the Biden administration.

Trump’s focus on immigration was central to his campaign for a second term, with efforts to curb illegal migration and drug trafficking, including imposing tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada. The administration has implemented new initiatives such as deporting immigrants on military planes and expanding federal agents’ arrests of undocumented individuals.

The visit by top officials signifies the administration’s commitment to border security beyond traditional agencies. Trump’s administration has ramped up efforts to overhaul border and immigration policies, resulting in a significant drop in illegal border crossings.

As part of these efforts, about 6,500 active duty forces have been deployed to the southern border, with more troops expected to be sent soon. Meanwhile, President Biden has tasked Vice President Kamala Harris with addressing the root causes of immigration.

Furthermore, the Trump administration is considering using the Alien Enemy Act of 1798 to detain and deport Venezuelans associated with the Tren de Aragua gang. This move could potentially impact relations with Venezuela and raise concerns about formal recognition of President Nicolas Maduro.

Overall, the visit and policies underscore the administration’s ongoing focus on border security and immigration enforcement.