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New Delhi
The number of migrant crossing along the southern border of the United States has dropped more than 40 per cent since June 4 when President Joe Biden announced suspension of new asylum claims.
The US officials have taken fewer than 2,400 migrants into custody per day over the past week, down from more than 3,800 at the beginning of June, the latest data from US Department of Homeland Security shows.
According to the DHS, this is the lowest level of illegal crossings since Biden assumed office.
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Biden has "carried out the largest expansion of lawful pathways and orderly processes in decades", the DHS statement read, measures that are "freeing up the asylum system for those with legitimate claims."
What does it mean?
The latest Homeland security data showing drop in migrant crossings is expected to feature as key flashpoint during presidential debate between US President Joe Biden and his Republican predecessor Donald Trump scheduled for June 28, 6:30 AM (Indian Standard Time).
Biden's camp is hoping that the falling migrant crossing numbers would blunt Republican criticism of Joe Biden's policies on immigration.
Several polls show high rates of disapproval amongst the US voters with Biden's handling of border security and immigration issues. The presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump has repeatedly hit on Biden on immigration and has promised sweeping measures to stop migrant crossings.
Trump Vs Biden: Presidential Debate 2024
The Atlanta debate between Joe Biden and Donald Trump is expected to be the most fateful presidential debate in US history. For the first time, a serving president and ex-president will debate it out their key priorities if re-elected.
According to most polls, Trump holds a slight lead over Biden and the Democrat veteran appears to be losing his chance to return to the White House after November elections.
(With inputs from agencies)