Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas is facing scrutiny after two foreign nationals from Jordan attempted to breach the Quantico Marine Corps Base in Virginia while posing as delivery drivers. Senate Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Lindsey Graham questioned Mayorkas about the individuals’ immigration status and whether they are on any terrorist watchlist. The two men were prevented from entering the Marine base and were turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody. Acting ICE Director Patrick Lechleitner confirmed that the men were in removal proceedings.
Graham demanded an immediate response from Mayorkas about the Jordanian nationals’ “background and intent” in order to address the recurring threat to national security posed by such incidents. Republicans have raised concerns about vulnerabilities at the U.S. southern border, with some warning that the relatively unchecked illegal migration could lead to a terrorist attack similar to 9/11. The House of Representatives impeached Mayorkas earlier this year, but the Democratic-controlled Senate blocked an impeachment trial from proceeding, allowing him to avoid further scrutiny.
A McConnell-aligned group criticized Sen. Sherrod Brown for supporting what they called “handouts for illegal immigrants” in Ohio. Meanwhile, a new Senate bill proposed using unused COVID-19 funds to build a border wall in response to the ongoing immigration crisis. The Biden administration has faced criticism from Republicans for rules targeting the gun industry, as well as for a perceived lack of action to address border security concerns. Despite bipartisan calls for stricter border control measures, DHS did not provide a comment on the incident at Quantico.
Republican lawmakers have heightened concerns about the national security implications of illegal immigration, particularly at the southern border. They have warned about the risks associated with individuals from all over the world entering the U.S. illegally, potentially creating opportunities for another terrorist attack. The attempted breach by the Jordanian nationals highlights the ongoing threats faced by U.S. authorities in securing the border and preventing unauthorized access to sensitive locations such as military bases.
The incident at Quantico and the subsequent response by ICE underscore the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in dealing with attempts to breach security protocols. Questions remain about how the two foreign nationals were able to enter the U.S. and whether they had any ties to terrorist organizations. The lack of transparency from DHS in providing information on the individuals has raised further concerns about the effectiveness of current border security measures. Despite efforts to address border security issues, the ongoing influx of illegal immigrants continues to pose a significant challenge for U.S. authorities tasked with protecting the nation’s borders and national security.
