Human smugglers are pressuring migrants to cross the U.S.-Mexico border illegally before President-elect Donald Trump assumes office in January, warning them that the border will soon be closed to illegal crossings. According to the Wall Street Journal, traffickers are using WhatsApp to urge migrants to act quickly, saying, “It’s now or never.”

These smugglers, often tied to powerful cartels, are reportedly emphasizing that Trump’s incoming administration will implement strict immigration policies. Messages have also sarcastically wished migrants “luck” in avoiding apprehension once those policies take effect.

Smugglers Urge Migrants to Rush to U.S. Before Trump Takes Power

The title should tell you everything you need to now about the current administration https://t.co/h0jXufALK0

— Michael Webert (@MichaelWebert) November 16, 2024

Trump has outlined plans to strengthen border enforcement immediately after taking office. His administration intends to reinstate the “Remain in Mexico” policy, resume border wall construction, and bring back Title 42, which allows for the swift expulsion of migrants. Trump has also proposed deploying the National Guard to the southern border.

While traffickers encourage illegal crossings, Mexican authorities have reportedly discouraged migrants from making the journey. However, U.S. border officials are preparing for a surge as migrants seek to cross before Trump enforces his policies.

Smugglers Reportedly Telling Migrants To Hoof It Toward Border Before Trump Takes Office https://t.co/5OjCyALVD0 qua @dailycaller

— Nhan (@NhanC18) November 17, 2024

Texas has taken proactive measures by increasing law enforcement presence at its border. Gov. Greg Abbott (R) has consistently supported strict border enforcement and has mobilized additional resources to address the potential influx of migrants.

Human Smugglers Told to Rush to the Border Before Trump Takes Office https://t.co/vtA3btj3EO
Repost
No conspiracies, no coincidences. See what you see.

— Graci Rose (@GraciRose3) November 17, 2024

The shift in U.S. immigration policy under Trump is expected to disrupt the operations of human traffickers and criminal cartels. The urgency of smugglers’ warnings underscores the significant changes that are likely to take place under Trump’s leadership.