A caravan of approximately 3,000 migrants from a dozen Latin American nations began their journey towards the US southern border, aiming to seek asylum before the possibility of a Donald Trump victory in the upcoming election. They are concerned that permits to cross the border may be blocked under a potential Trump administration, potentially preventing them from seeking asylum legally through an app that allows them to schedule appointments at border posts to plead their case.
Migrants like Miguel Salazar from El Salvador are worried about the implications of a Trump win on their ability to enter the US legally. The app, known as CBP One, is utilized by migrants once they are in Mexico City or other northern Mexican states to schedule appointments for crossing the border. Cuban migrant Oswaldo Reyna expressed frustration at Trump’s characterization of migrants as “invaders,” emphasizing that they are hard-working individuals seeking a better life due to the challenges they face in their home countries.
Both Trump and his running mate, Ohio Sen. JD Vance, have promised to crack down on migrant crossings if they are successful in winning the White House. The political landscape is uncertain as President Biden announced he would not seek reelection, endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris as his replacement. The Biden administration, including Harris, has come under fire for its border policies which have led to a surge in migrants entering the US.
The caravan began its journey from Ciudad Hidalgo in Mexico, which shares a border with Guatemala. Some migrants had waited in the town for weeks in hopes of obtaining permits to continue their journey northward. The desire to reach the US before the election and the potential consequences of a Trump victory are motivating factors for the migrants as they make their way towards the border.
The migrants are determined to pursue asylum in the US, fearing the possibility of stricter border enforcement under a Trump administration. The current political climate and policies regarding migration have prompted the caravan of individuals to embark on their journey, with hopes of finding a better life and opportunities in the United States. The challenges and uncertainties surrounding their immigration journey are compounded by the rhetoric and promises of political figures, adding to the urgency of their quest for asylum.
The situation at the US southern border remains complex and contentious, with migrants facing obstacles and uncertain futures as they attempt to seek refuge in the country. The journey of the caravan highlights the ongoing issues surrounding migration policies, border security, and the impact of political decisions on the lives of those seeking asylum in the US. As the migrants continue their trek towards the border, the outcome of the upcoming election and its potential implications on their asylum-seeking efforts remain a significant concern for those in the caravan.
