Mast of Florida expressed concern over the increasing number of Chinese nationals crossing the border illegally, calling it a national security threat. The data from March showed a significant increase in the number of Chinese military-age nationals entering the United States illegally since President Biden took office, with warnings from officials about the potential infiltration by Chinese military intelligence. While the numbers have slightly decreased from the record highs in December, they remain alarmingly high. The current fiscal year has already set a record for the number of unauthorized Chinese nationals entering the country. Some analysts attribute this increase to deteriorating economic conditions in China and human rights abuses. However, others, like National Border Patrol Council President Brandon Judd, warn that this trend could be exploited by Chinese military intelligence. Florida state Rep. Brian Mast emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating that China’s true intention is to undermine the United States, making illegal border crossings by Chinese nationals a significant national security threat. Schmitt was discussing a recent incident involving an illegal immigrant from China who was apprehended after trespassing onto the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms, California. This base is the largest Marine Corps facility in the United States. The individual ignored orders to leave, highlighting a concerning trend of Chinese nationals infiltrating U.S. military bases in recent years.
For example, in 2020, two Chinese nationals were arrested for unlawfully entering and taking photographs at a U.S. Navy base in Florida. According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, there have been over 100 similar incidents over the past few years.
Republicans have criticized President Biden’s policies for exacerbating the border crisis and have proposed solutions such as ending the “catch-and-release” policy, increasing expedited removals, resuming border wall construction, and reinstating the “Remain in Mexico” policy implemented during the Trump administration.
The White House declined to comment on the growing number of military-aged Chinese illegal immigrants encountered by border patrol or the GOP’s criticisms.
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