On MSNBC’s “Morning Joe,” Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas responded to concerns about more than 400 migrants brought to the U.S. by an ISIS-linked human smuggling network. He claimed to viewers that there is no evidence these migrants intend to harm the U.S.
Mayorkas stressed that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) takes the safety of Americans very seriously. “We screen and vet individuals at the time of encounter. If we learn of derogatory information, we take enforcement action,” he affirmed.
Co-host Mika Brzezinski raised two issues: the reported identification of migrants with potential ISIS affiliations and the continued release of illegal crossers as they pursue asylum claims. She questioned the effectiveness of the current procedures.
In response, Mayorkas clarified, “We have no evidence that they are individuals plotting to harm the United States. That is inaccurate.” He emphasized that DHS uses rigorous vetting processes to protect national security.
Mayorkas also addressed the matter of releasing migrants into the U.S. He noted that the number of individuals released into immigration enforcement proceedings has significantly decreased since the president’s proclamation. He explained that the U.S. has faced detention capacity limitations since the 1990s, necessitating the release of some individuals who are then monitored through Alternatives to Detention programs.
Highlighting the broader issue, Mayorkas called for legislative action to fix the immigration system. “We’re operating within a broken immigration system. We need Congress to fix it. Everyone agrees with that. It hasn’t been fixed since 1996,” he stated.
Mayorkas reassured the public of DHS’s dedication to ensuring safety and security while pointing out the need for systemic immigration reform through congressional action.
