The security of America’s borders remains one of the most pressing challenges of our time. In 2024, ensuring the safety of our citizens, securing our national sovereignty, and maintaining economic stability require focused action on the U.S. border. Weak borders invite dangerous consequences—whether it’s illegal immigration, the surge in drug trafficking, or the expansion of organized crime that threatens local communities. The need to address these issues through practical, conservative solutions has never been more urgent.
A secure border is the first line of defense in protecting American workers, preserving national security, and upholding the rule of law. As we approach 2024, it is critical that conservative policymakers take a strong stance on border security by enforcing existing laws, expanding physical and technological border barriers, and supporting local law enforcement agencies in their efforts to combat illegal immigration and criminal activity.
This article explores the dangers posed by weak border security, and presents a set of policies that conservative leaders argue can better secure America’s borders while ensuring the safety of the American people.
The Dangers of Weak Border Security
Weak borders pose significant risks across various facets of society, and it is clear that the current system is not equipped to address these challenges effectively. Here are some of the primary concerns raised by conservatives regarding lax border enforcement:
1. Illegal Immigration and Strain on Public Resources
One of the most significant issues related to weak border security is the high rate of illegal immigration. Every year, thousands of individuals enter the U.S. unlawfully, overwhelming public services such as education, healthcare, and law enforcement. The costs associated with these services fall on American taxpayers, many of whom already struggle with rising costs of living and limited access to social services.
In addition to the financial burden, there are concerns over illegal immigration’s impact on the job market. Illegal immigrants often compete for low-wage jobs, displacing American workers, particularly in industries like construction, agriculture, and service sectors.
2. Drug Trafficking and Violent Crime
A weak border security system also creates a gateway for drug cartels and organized criminal groups to exploit vulnerable areas of the U.S. border. The trafficking of illicit substances such as fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamines has soared in recent years, contributing to the opioid crisis that is devastating communities across the nation. The flow of drugs across porous borders enables cartels to gain financial power and resources, making them even more dangerous and difficult to dismantle.
Furthermore, illegal crossings often coincide with a rise in violent crimes, including human trafficking, sexual exploitation, and cartel violence. Local law enforcement agencies in border states like Texas and Arizona are already stretched thin, and a lack of robust federal intervention exacerbates the situation.
3. National Security Threats
A failure to secure the U.S. border presents national security risks. Terrorist groups or hostile foreign actors could exploit border vulnerabilities to enter the country undetected. While the majority of those crossing the border may be seeking economic opportunity or refuge, it’s critical to recognize that a failure to secure the border can create opportunities for nefarious actors to enter the U.S. and carry out attacks.
The lack of effective monitoring and enforcement along border areas is a gap that America’s adversaries could exploit to undermine national security, putting American lives at risk.
Conservative Solutions to Secure the Border in 2024
In light of the growing concerns associated with weak border security, conservative policymakers argue that a set of clear, actionable measures is necessary to strengthen the border. These policies would focus on enhanced enforcement, modern technology, and a renewed commitment to the rule of law.
1. Physical Border Barriers
A key element of the conservative plan is the construction of additional physical barriers along the southern border. Barriers such as walls or fences in strategic locations, along with the implementation of additional security measures, would create more obstacles for illegal border crossings. While some argue for a more open border system, conservatives argue that robust physical barriers are essential for deterring illegal immigration and ensuring effective enforcement.
Increased border walls would not only prevent illegal crossings but also provide law enforcement agencies with the ability to patrol and monitor areas more efficiently. In addition, border barriers could be supplemented with new vehicle barriers, surveillance towers, and infrastructure to strengthen security in remote areas.
2. Advanced Technology and Surveillance Systems
While physical barriers are important, conservatives also emphasize the role of technology in securing the border. The use of drones, infrared cameras, and advanced sensors could significantly enhance surveillance capabilities along the U.S.-Mexico border. These systems would allow border agents to detect illegal crossings and suspicious activities in real time, making it easier to respond quickly to potential threats.
Additionally, satellite technology could be deployed to monitor remote or difficult-to-patrol areas, which are currently susceptible to exploitation by human traffickers and drug cartels. Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) systems for threat detection and border monitoring would further modernize and streamline enforcement efforts.
3. E-Verify and Workforce Enforcement
Conservatives argue that securing the border goes hand-in-hand with cracking down on illegal immigration within the U.S. itself. The E-Verify system, which allows employers to verify the legal status of their workers, is seen as a vital tool for reducing illegal immigration. Mandating the use of E-Verify for all employers could help reduce the number of individuals working in the U.S. unlawfully, thus decreasing the economic incentive for illegal crossings.
Moreover, penalties for businesses that knowingly hire illegal immigrants would be strictly enforced to deter exploitation of immigrant labor and reduce the strain on American workers. A national ID system, linked to the E-Verify database, could further streamline the enforcement of immigration laws within the workforce.
4. Stronger Partnerships with Local Law Enforcement
Conservatives argue that local law enforcement agencies should be given more support and resources to combat illegal immigration and criminal activities linked to it. By partnering with local authorities, the federal government can help target specific areas with heightened illegal immigration activity, and assist in the apprehension of criminals involved in trafficking and smuggling operations.
This collaboration would also allow local agencies to focus on high-priority threats while the federal government works to address broader immigration issues. Strengthening partnerships with local law enforcement would lead to more effective intelligence sharing and more coordinated operations against criminal groups operating along the border.
5. Reforming Asylum Policies
In response to the growing number of asylum seekers entering the U.S., conservatives advocate for reforms to the asylum process to ensure it is not abused. Streamlining asylum applications and ensuring that only those who are truly in need of protection can enter the U.S. would help prevent the overburdening of the immigration system. Strengthening the vetting process for asylum seekers and increasing the resources dedicated to evaluating claims would protect against fraudulent applications.
Conservatives also argue that asylum claims should be processed in safe third countries rather than within the U.S. itself, to prevent the exploitation of asylum policies by individuals who do not meet the criteria for protection.
Conclusion: A Path Forward for Secure Borders
In 2024, securing America’s borders should be a top priority. The risks posed by illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and national security threats require urgent attention and action. Conservatives believe that a comprehensive approach—comprising physical barriers, advanced technology, workforce enforcement, and collaboration with local law enforcement—will provide the tools needed to secure the U.S. border and restore order.
By enforcing existing laws, ensuring fair and just immigration processes, and investing in stronger security infrastructure, conservatives can protect American citizens from the dangers posed by a weak border system. As the nation moves forward into 2024, the implementation of these policies will serve as a cornerstone for ensuring the safety, security, and prosperity of the American people.
