Smugglers are bringing migrants to a remote Arizona border crossing, overwhelming US agents

The main issue discussed in this text is the overwhelming influx of migrants at a remote Arizona border crossing, leading to the shutdown of nearby international crossings and drawing attention to immigration concerns, particularly in the context of the upcoming presidential elections.

Migrants are coming to this remote area on Arizona’s southern border with Mexico due to a shift in smuggling routes. Smugglers from the region controlled by Mexico’s Sinaloa cartel are steering people to this area, where Border Patrol staffing is lighter, making it easier for migrants to enter the United States.

To address the situation, the U.S. government has shut down nearby international crossings to free up Customs and Border Protection officers to assist with transportation and support for the influx of migrants. This includes the closure of the Lukeville, Arizona, crossing.

Critics of the shutdown, including Arizona Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs, are concerned that it could harm trade and tourism. They have urged President Joe Biden to reassign National Guard members to help reopen the Lukeville crossing.

The remote location of this border crossing puts significant strain on Border Patrol staffing and resources. Smugglers aim to stretch agents as thinly as possible, leading to the closure of highway checkpoints and the diversion of resources for processing migrants.

Immigration issues, particularly border security, are expected to be a significant topic in the upcoming presidential elections. The handling of this immigration surge and border security measures could impact President Joe Biden’s re-election campaign, especially among Republican voters.

The Border Patrol’s Tucson sector chief mentioned that the agency made 18,900 arrests for illegal crossings in the previous week in the sector, which includes most of Arizona’s border with Mexico. This represents a significant increase compared to daily averages in previous months.

The shutdown of border crossings, including the Lukeville border crossing, is affecting travel for U.S. residents. Those traveling to the popular resort of Puerto Peñasco, located south of the border, now must cross through Nogales or San Luis, which are several hours away.

One concern is the well-being of migrants, including infants and children, who may be stranded in remote desert areas for days. Additionally, the strain on Border Patrol resources and the diversion of officers from other agencies, such as air marshals and Federal Protective Service officers, are notable consequences.