The human smugglers: Hurry into the US before Trump takes office

Published 16 November 2024 at 10.10

Foreign. Donald Trump's promise to secure the country against illegal immigrants has raised concerns, despite his failed promise of deportations and a border wall with Mexico last time, which did not materialize. Smugglers are now urging illegals to enter the US quickly.

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People smugglers are urging people who want to enter the US to hurry before Trump is sworn in as President. The Wall Street Journal reports.

– Many have been told to hurry before there are changes, says Beatriz Fuente, who runs a shelter for illegal immigrants on their way to the United States in Mexico City.

She noticed that the shelter started to empty of residents even before the election, she says.

Even inside the United States, illegal immigrants are worried about the risk of deportation. Among those who worry is Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet, operations director of the Hope Community Center in Florida, whom SVT has interviewed.

– People who have built their lives here for decades risk losing everything. It's about families, neighbors and friends who have contributed to society, he tells SVT.

Hope Community Center, which has existed for over 50 years, is a non-profit organization that helps illegal immigrants break the law and stay in the United States without permission.

With English classes, legal assistance and advocacy work to reform the immigration system, the organization tries to “give hope” to the illegals.

However, the Trump administration's policy has received some support among those who want to see tighter border controls.

– I understand that many are concerned about illegal migration. But it is about people fleeing desperate situations. Seeking asylum is a legal right, but the waiting time can be up to ten years, says Sousa-Lazaballet.

In Florida, left-wing organizations are now mobilizing to meet the increased needs of illegals, while opposition to US migration policy is once again being manifested in a presidential election.