The United States has experienced its most significant wave of immigration to date, with more than eight million net migrants entering the country since the beginning of the Biden-Harris administration in 2021.

This unprecedented surge has become a focal point in U.S. political discussions, even forcing a grudging admission from the New York Times, as the Post Millennial reports.

The Times recently revealed that between 2021 and 2024, immigration numbers far exceeded those of the late 1800s and early 1900s, marking a new historical high.

U.S. government records, including data from the Census Bureau and the Congressional Budget Office, corroborate the extent of this surge.

The increase in net migration not only surpasses previous benchmarks but also noticeably affects the demographic landscape of the country.

Unauthorized Migration Sparks Debate

Approximately 62% of these new migrants, equivalent to about five million individuals, entered the U.S. without authorization, based on estimates from Goldman Sachs.

These figures have stirred public discourse, highlighting intense debate over the implications of President Joe Biden's immigration policies. The surge in unauthorized immigration has been attributed primarily to policy changes initiated during Biden's tenure, rather than external global events that traditionally drive migration.

The spike in immigration has also influenced the makeup of U.S. residents, with 15.2% of the population now born in another country. This marks a significant increase from the 14.8% recorded in 1890.

The political debate surrounding these figures is intensifying as the 2024 elections approach, as immigration issues become a pivotal topic in political platforms and public opinion.

Policy Changes and Their Impact

Biden's administration enacted policies after the 2020 election that actively encouraged immigration, fulfilling campaign promises to revise and soften existing immigration rules.

The administration has focused on creating pathways for immigration, aiming to reflect a more inclusive and welcoming stance toward migrants. However, this approach has not been without its critics, especially as concerns over unauthorized migrants continue to grow.

The influx also saw the admission of over 435,000 migrants with criminal records, including 13,000 individuals convicted of murder and 15,000 convicted of sexual assault. This aspect of immigration has fueled the debate around national security and public safety, bringing additional scrutiny to the Biden administration's strategies.

Election Cycle Brings Immigration to Forefront

The immigration policies enacted have had a direct impact on deportation rates, which have plummeted by 74% since Biden took office. This significant decline has been a focal point of criticism from those who view strong border control as essential for national safety. The reduction in deportations has prompted opponents of the administration to call for more stringent enforcement.

As immigration emerges as a leading issue in the 2024 elections, a significant portion of the electorate is demanding action. Notably, 59% of voters express support for mass deportation measures. This sentiment has been particularly strong in Texas border counties, where Donald Trump made considerable electoral inroads -- areas that previously leaned Democrat.

Trump Administration Promises Change

Immigration remained a critical challenge for Vice President Kamala Harris and proved to be a key political vulnerability. Her handling of the issue was closely scrutinized alongside her broader economic agenda. Yet, the Times noted that this period of heightened immigration may soon conclude with the transition to the newly elected Trump administration.

Trump's incoming administration, with Tom Homan appointed as the border czar, plans to prioritize deportations and tighten immigration control significantly.

Such measures are anticipated to reverse many of the policies that led to this record immigration surge, potentially reshaping the landscape once more.

As the U.S. stands on the cusp of political transition, the discourse surrounding immigration is set to continue, impacting policy developments and voter sentiments alike. The lasting legacy of these historic immigration levels remains to be seen as the new administration takes charge.