A recent visit by Oregon lawmakers to the U.S. southern border in Yuma, Arizona, shed light on the complexities and challenges surrounding illegal immigration and border security. The delegation, comprising State Representatives Christine Goodwin, Virgil Osborne, Court Boice, Boomer Wright, and State Senator David Brock Smith, embarked on a fact-finding mission to understand the impact of mass illegal immigration on border communities.

State Representative Christine Goodwin remarked, “It was surreal to see the crisis at the southern border up-close. Since Biden took office, an estimated 15 million migrants from 115 different countries have crossed the border illegally.” Goodwin highlighted the alarming connection between illegal immigration and cartel activities, stating, “Many of these men, women, and children are indentured to the cartels. Approximately 50 percent of all fentanyl in the United States comes across the border in Arizona.”

State Senator David Brock Smith emphasized the urgent need for border security measures, stating, “We have the technology to secure the border and deter the flow of illegal immigration and drugs into our communities.” He urged proactive measures to combat the crisis, emphasizing the need for collaboration between state and federal authorities.

During their visit, the lawmakers toured Amberly’s Place, a Yuma-based family advocacy center, and met with Robert Trenschel, CEO of the Yuma Regional Medical Center. These engagements provided valuable insights into the broader impacts of border-related issues on local communities, including challenges related to child abuse, human trafficking, and healthcare provision.

State Representative Virgil Osborne highlighted the role of cartels in controlling the border and underscored the need to revisit sanctuary state policies. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies to address security concerns effectively.

The visit underscored the multifaceted nature of border challenges and the imperative for comprehensive policy responses. Oregon lawmakers expressed their commitment to addressing these issues and working towards solutions that prioritize community safety and security.