President Donald J. Trump has issued a proclamation declaring the situation at the southern border of the United States as an invasion under Article IV, Section 4 of the U.S. Constitution. This decision follows what he describes as significant failures by the Federal Government to control illegal immigration and protect state sovereignty.
The President's proclamation emphasizes the inherent authority of a sovereign nation to manage its borders and decide who may enter. He cites previous Supreme Court rulings that recognize this power as part of executive responsibility in foreign affairs. "When Congress prescribes a procedure concerning the admissibility of aliens, it is not dealing alone with a legislative power. It is implementing an inherent executive power," Trump noted, referencing past legal interpretations.
Over recent years, millions of illegal entries have reportedly overwhelmed existing immigration frameworks designed to safeguard public health, safety, and national security. The proclamation highlights that these challenges are exacerbated by international cartels and transnational criminal organizations operating near the border.
Trump asserts that federal authorities lack sufficient operational capability to screen all individuals crossing illegally for potential health risks or criminal backgrounds, which poses heightened threats to national security and public safety.
In response, Trump has invoked sections 212(f) and 215(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), suspending entry into the United States for those deemed part of this ongoing invasion until further notice. The order also restricts access to INA provisions that would allow continued presence in the country without proper vetting.
Furthermore, Trump's directive calls on federal agencies like Homeland Security to take necessary actions to repel or remove individuals engaged in what he terms an invasion across the southern border.
"This statute 'exudes deference to the President in every clause,'" Trump stated, citing legal precedent from Trump v. Hawaii regarding presidential authority over immigration matters.
The proclamation outlines several sections detailing suspension measures for aliens posing health or security risks and reiterates constitutional powers vested in the presidency for controlling foreign affairs and ensuring state protection against invasions.
This action underscores ongoing debates about immigration policy effectiveness and federal versus state responsibilities amid increasing numbers at U.S.-Mexico border crossings.
