As our communities, Border Patrol, and migrants face hardship as a result of the lack of border security, it is imperative to understand that the ongoing border crisis has extended into a humanitarian crisis. Unfortunately, the handling of children traveling from other countries to our southern border without supervision from a parent illustrates this disturbing reality far too well.
The Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) is responsible for children who cross the border illegally without a parent or sponsor. The agency, however, likely put some of these kids at further risk as recent reports have revealed that many of these children have gone missing. Specifically, the New York Times uncovered that the ORR has lost immediate contact with over 85,000 unaccompanied children who entered the country illegally during the President’s tenure.
As Chairman of the Subcommittee on National Security, the Border, and Foreign Affairs, I held a hearing to conduct oversight into how President Biden's reckless immigration policies are endangering — not protecting — migrant children. Our witness, Robin Dunn Marcos, who serves as Director of the ORR, was brought in to address our concerns regarding these 85,000 kids that have fallen off the radar.
Unfortunately, Director Dunn Marcos was unable to answer basic questions about the handling of unaccompanied migrant children under her leadership. Evidently, the agency has prioritized the speedy release of these children over their safety.
These missing children represent yet another reason why we must restore safety and security along our Southern border immediately. The Biden Administration's neglect has further threatened countless migrant children, and it is unacceptable.
Click here to watch my full opening statement or here to see what other Members of Congress asked during the hearing.
