The Arizona border has been one of the most contentious talking points on the national stage. With most migrant traffic coming through the Grand Canyon state's southern border, all eyes are on Arizona.

The U.S./Mexico Border Wall
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One of the largest issues with the border currently is the drug trade, which sees massive traffic through the Arizona border.

The Arizona Border

As 2024 rolled in and the years changed, so too did the state that saw the most crossing traffic. Texas had been the largest spot for border crossers to land, but with the state government cracking down harder on crossings, the path shifted to Arizona.

Road Sign stating that border patrol is ahead
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From October of 2023 to February of 2024 over 250,000 migrants have crossed the Arizona border, making their way into the United States. This shift concerns Arizonans, as between 2017 and 2023 over 1,500 deaths were recorded over Fentanyl use in Pima County alone.

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The Feds are Here to Help

It seemed that help was futile, as the federal government has been adamant about staying out of the border situation, but luckily Senator Mark Kelly doesn't back down without a fight.

The U.S. Capitol building with American flags flying in the foreground
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Kelly went to the senate, voiced his concerns, and secured $850 Million in funding for The End Fentanyl Act. This act gives money and resources to those guarding the border, including $491 Million meant to improve drug detecting technology.

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This allocation of funds is a godsend to those stationed at the border, and will allow for more chances to stop illegal drugs from crossing the border. While we have yet to see if this funding will work, it's a massive step forward and will create much better security at one of the most talked about points in the United States.

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