Clarifying The Military’s Role In Protecting The Territorial Integrity Of The United States

What is the Presidential Action?

The recent presidential order mandates a significant enhancement in the role of the U.S. Armed Forces concerning the protection of the U.S. borders. In layman terms, the President has ordered that the military take a more active and direct role in securing the national borders, particularly against unlawful migration, drug trafficking, and other criminal activities that threaten national security. This includes the implementation of strategies to effectively seal the borders and maintain the sovereignty of the United States.

Background or Context With Statistics and Source References

Historically, the U.S. has faced various threats at its borders, ranging from illegal immigration to the trafficking of narcotics. According to the Department of Homeland Security, there were over 1.7 million border apprehensions in the fiscal year 2021, a significant increase from previous years. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) also reports that a substantial amount of narcotics, including opioids, enter the U.S. across the southern border. The military’s involvement in border security is not new but has varied in intensity and nature over the years based on the perceived level of threat and policy directions.

Why This Action Was Taken

The President’s order stems from ongoing concerns about national security and the integrity of U.S. borders. The increasing challenges posed by unlawful mass migration and the unchecked flow of narcotics have been cited as primary reasons for this directive. The order aims to address these issues head-on, ensuring a more fortified and secure border to protect American citizens and uphold the law.

Short and Long-term Impact on People

• Short-term: Increased military presence at the borders, potentially leading to more efficient handling of illegal activities but also possible disruptions or delays in cross-border traffic. Local communities might experience an increase in law enforcement activities.
• Long-term: Potential reduction in illegal immigration and drug trafficking, which could lead to lower crime rates and fewer drug-related health issues in border areas. Enhanced national security might also foster a greater sense of safety among U.S. residents.

Performance/Impact Parameters to Measure Success

To evaluate the success of this presidential order, the following parameters can be observed:

• Reduction in the number of illegal border crossings, as reported by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
• Decrease in drug trafficking volumes, particularly of opioids, as reported by the DEA and local law enforcement agencies.
• Improvements in the processing and handling of asylum claims and border entries, ensuring a balance between security and humanitarian considerations.
• Feedback from local communities and border states on the impact of increased military presence and their sense of security.