South Bend Times

Rep. Rudy Yakym has expressed strong opinions on the issue of border security, emphasizing its importance to national security. According to Yakym, under the Biden administration and Vice President Kamala Harris, who was tasked with overseeing border issues, there was a significant increase in illegal immigration. He claims that over 10 million illegal immigrants entered the United States during their tenure.

Yakym highlighted incidents involving violent criminal aliens and gang members, citing cases such as Laken Riley and Rachel Morin. Riley, a nursing student, was reportedly murdered by an illegal immigrant who had been released into the country twice. Morin's death was attributed to an MS-13 gang member with a history of violence in El Salvador.

The congressman also pointed out the role of cartels in trafficking humans and fentanyl across the border, contributing to what he describes as "the deadliest drug epidemic in American history." He shared personal experiences from law enforcement in Indiana and mentioned attending a friend's funeral due to fentanyl-laced medication.

Yakym commended the Trump administration for reversing previous policies and implementing significant border security measures. He noted that while over 62,000 illegal migrants were released into the U.S. in May 2024, this number dropped to zero by May 2025.

To address these issues permanently, Yakym advocates for what he calls "the One Big Beautiful Bill," which aims to complete the border wall and provide necessary resources for Border Patrol agents. The bill is presented as essential for sealing the border against future threats from drug cartels and other dangerous entities.

"Border security is national security," Yakym stated emphatically, underscoring his belief that this legislative measure will secure both.