Overview
- The New York Times says an August 2020 memo to Biden warned his immigration plans risked "chaos," overwhelmed processing, and a surge in crossings.
- Advisers proposed steps such as faster asylum rejections, reception centers, third‑country transfers, and keeping some migrants in Mexico, which were not adopted.
- Early moves to pause some deportations, halt wall construction, and suspend "Remain in Mexico" were followed by record encounters that strained border facilities and major cities.
- Former officials say internal plans to toughen enforcement repeatedly stalled over political concerns and disputes, with one ICE adviser calling the approach "no strategy."
- The reporting links sustained border pressure to 2024 political damage for Democrats and notes Biden later issued a restrictive crossing order after legislation faltered.