President Declares Southern Border Invasion, Suspends Entry of Illegal Aliens

WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald J. Trump declared an ongoing invasion at the U.S. southern border on January 20, 2025, invoking constitutional and statutory powers to suspend the entry of illegal aliens and impose restrictions on immigration processes. The proclamation cites public health, safety, and national security risks as the primary reasons for the emergency measures.

In the proclamation, President Trump emphasized the federal government’s failure to protect states from the influx of illegal immigrants, stating that over 8 million illegal aliens have been encountered at the southern border in the past four years, with millions more evading detection. The surge has overwhelmed immigration systems, rendering key provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) ineffective.

“The sheer number of aliens entering the United States has overwhelmed the system,” the proclamation reads. “Millions of aliens who potentially pose significant threats to health, safety, and national security have moved into communities nationwide.”

The President cited Article IV, Section 4 of the U.S. Constitution, which obligates the federal government to protect states against invasion. He argued that the current border crisis meets the constitutional definition of an invasion, necessitating immediate action.

Under the proclamation, the entry of aliens engaged in the invasion is suspended until the President determines the crisis has ceased. Additionally, aliens who fail to provide sufficient medical, criminal, and background information will be barred from invoking provisions of the INA that permit their continued presence in the U.S.

The proclamation also directs the Secretary of Homeland Security, in coordination with the Secretary of State and the Attorney General, to take operational actions to repel, repatriate, or remove aliens involved in the invasion. These measures include suspending physical entry and restricting access to immigration benefits.

President Trump invoked his authority under sections 212(f) and 215(a) of the INA, which allow the President to suspend the entry of aliens deemed detrimental to U.S. interests. He also cited his inherent constitutional powers to control foreign affairs and protect national sovereignty.

The proclamation follows years of escalating border crossings, with states bearing significant costs for medical care, law enforcement, and other services related to illegal immigration. The President’s declaration marks a significant escalation in federal efforts to address the crisis.

Critics argue that the proclamation could face legal challenges, particularly regarding the interpretation of “invasion” under the Constitution. However, the administration maintains that the measures are necessary to restore operational control of the border and protect national security.