“We have reached agreements to put more troops on their own border. Mexico, Honduras and Guatemala have agreed to do so. This will not only prevent traffickers, smugglers and cartels who take advantage of the children going here, but also to protect them, ”Moran said.
The Biden administration has struggled to keep up with the influx of migrants arriving at the border and as there has been a significant increase in the number of migrant children in US custody.
Moran also outlined a two-pronged approach to addressing the situation at the border, including prosecuting unaccompanied minors safely in the U.S. and addressing the reasons why people migrate to the United States.
“We’re dealing with the reasons why people come from the region. That’s really important. If you just look at our border, don’t tell yourself why people come to our border. The president has a plan and he’s working with the vice president in that regard, ”Moran said, citing in part investments in the region.
The data underscores the ongoing challenge facing the Biden administration, as officials are vying to establish emergency places to house migrant children, many of whom have been detained in poor condition.
This story has been updated.