Where Do Most People Cross The U.S.-Mexico Border Illegally?

In the 2019 fiscal year, illegal crossings more than doubled, with over 851,000 apprehensions. The El Paso and Rio Grande Valley sectors accounted for 61% of these encounters. The El Paso sector saw a spike in crossings, possibly due to its geography, with shallow river areas and proximity to Juarez. The Rio Grande Valley, a focus of the Trump administration's border efforts, has existing fencing and new contracts for additional border wall systems. This region remains a key crossing point for Central American migrants due to its proximity to the Mexico-Guatemala border.

In the 2019 fiscal year, what percentage of illegal crossings occurred in the El Paso and Rio Grande Valley sectors?

• 85%

• 75%

• 45%

• 61%

What geographical feature near El Paso might contribute to the increase in illegal crossings?

• A wide desert

• A steep mountain

• A shallow river

• A dense forest

Which city is located just across the border from El Paso, potentially influencing illegal crossings?

• Monterrey

• Guadalajara

• Tijuana

• Juarez

What is the length of the primary fencing that already exists in the Rio Grande Valley sector?

• 55 miles

• 150 miles

• 30 miles

• 100 miles

Why is the Rio Grande Valley sector strategically important for Central American migrants?

• It has the most lenient border policies.

• It offers the most job opportunities.

• It has the least amount of border security.

• It is the closest point to the US from the Mexico-Guatemala border.