As the Trump administration enters its third week in office, many residents along the Arizona border are reacting to the new executive orders aimed at changing immigration policies and strengthening border security.

These changes have had a noticeable impact on people living near the southern Arizona border, especially in places like Arivaca, a small community just north of the U.S.-Mexico border.

Border Security Concerns on Local Ranches

Jim Chilton, a rancher living just south of Arivaca, owns 50,000 acres of land that have seen significant activity over the past few years. Chilton, who has lived in the area for over 35 years, has been using trail cameras to monitor movement across his property. He believes that drug cartels are taking advantage of his land to move people and illegal drugs deeper into the United States.

Chilton has gathered footage over the past four years, capturing more than 3,700 people traveling across his ranch. He notes that these individuals are very different from those who are seeking asylum legally at the border. While Chilton describes these people as “bad guys,” he is concerned about the dangerous situation unfolding on his land.

Chilton’s ranch borders a section of the border wall, which has an unsealed gap. He claims that this gap has made it easier for people to cross illegally into the United States.

Support for Trump’s Arizona Border Measures

In light of these issues, Chilton strongly supports President Trump plan to seal the Arizona Border. He has noticed a decline in the number of people crossing his land, which he attributes to the administration’s border security efforts. “I think his policy of sealing the border is taking place, and I’m overjoyed about it,” Chilton said.

For Chilton, the closure of gaps in the border wall means fewer illegal crossings, which he believes will help reduce the flow of drugs and people into his community.

Volunteers in Arivaca Brace for Changes

Meanwhile, in the nearby community of Arivaca, volunteers are concerned about the potential effects of stricter immigration policies. A group of local volunteers works to provide aid to migrants who may be forced to take dangerous routes into the United States due to these new border measures.

Lisa Jacobsen, one of the volunteers, warns that more people could be forced to cross the desert as their only option to seek asylum. “It’s very possible that the people who were originally intending on seeking asylum only have one option to them, which is to cross the desert,” Jacobsen explained.

The volunteers in Arivaca work tirelessly to prevent migrant deaths by providing food, water, and first aid to those crossing the border. While they are uncertain about how Trump’s immigration policies will unfold, they are prepared to continue their work helping those in need.

A Humanitarian Perspective on Border Issues

Despite his strong stance on border security, Jim Chilton emphasizes that his concern for human life remains central to his beliefs. He maintains a network of more than 50 wells and drinking fountains across his land to provide water to migrants in need. “We’re all humans, we’re all brothers and sisters. That doesn’t mean people have a right to come into our country, but once they do, they should be treated humanely,” Chilton said.

This view shows that, while Arizona Border security is a top priority for Chilton, he also believes that those who make it across should be treated with respect and dignity.

Conclusion: A Divided Opinion on Immigration Policy

The debate over immigration and Arizona Border security in Arizona is a complex and emotional issue. While some, like Jim Chilton, are pleased with the Trump administration’s efforts to strengthen border security, others, like the volunteers in Arivaca, are worried that these changes could lead to more dangerous crossings for migrants. As the situation develops, it is clear that residents on both sides of the issue are deeply invested in the future of their communities and the people who live there.