The Financial Implications of Biden’s Border Policies on America

The Financial Implications of Biden’s Border Policies on America

Many can relate to the feeling of being left with an unexpected bill after a night out with friends. Today, the United States faces a similar predicament due to what many describe as unrestrained border policies implemented during President Biden’s administration. This situation is set to impose a significant financial burden for years to come.

Trump’s Commitment to Border Security

President Donald Trump has remained focused on fulfilling his commitment to secure the southern border. His administration has emphasized the enforcement of immigration laws, seeking to remove undocumented aliens while holding visa holders accountable to U.S. regulations. However, his efforts have not come without opposition.

Illegal aliens and their advocates have frequently challenged Trump’s policies through the courts. A notable surge in lawsuits from left-leaning organizations has led to judges issuing numerous nationwide injunctions. According to former Attorney General Bill Barr, the courts issued a total of 27 such injunctions throughout the entire 20th century. In stark contrast, Trump faced 79 injunctions this century alone.

The Emergence of Biden’s Border Crisis

As Trump has struggled to enforce immigration laws, the repercussions of Biden’s border decisions have started to unfold. One of the most notable examples is New York’s Roosevelt Hotel, which has transformed from a once-popular tourist destination to a makeshift shelter for migrants. Biden’s policies of paroling inadmissible individuals and releasing them at the border attracted millions to cities touted as sanctuaries.

The city of New York responded by providing free housing and amenities for migrants, often choosing not to prosecute minor infractions. Mayor Eric Adams now finds himself spending approximately $4 billion annually to support these initiatives. The Roosevelt Hotel is only one of over 200 emergency shelters operating at the height of the migrant crisis.

Changes Under Trump’s Administration

In January 2025, contrary to predictions from the Biden administration, Trump’s leadership saw a dramatic reduction in illegal border crossings by more than 90 percent. He managed to halt illegal parole programs, escalate internal enforcement, and cut federal funding to NGOs that aid mass migration. Consequently, New York City began the process of closing temporary shelters.

The Roosevelt Hotel is expected to cease its function as a shelter in June, though there are still around 2,000 migrants residing there as of mid-May. Interestingly, the hotel is owned by the government of Pakistan, which currently faces its own financial challenges. After years as a refuge for those unacquainted with Western customs, the Roosevelt will likely require extensive renovations before welcoming tourists again.

Projected Costs of Shelter Renovation

Estimates suggest the renovation of each room could range between $50,000 and $90,000. Given the hotel’s over 1,000 rooms, the total could surpass $90 million just for the Roosevelt, excluding the common areas. The financial responsibility for these renovations will inevitably fall on New York taxpayers.

The Impact on Public Education

Beyond shelter expenses, Biden’s border policies have raised additional concerns regarding educational costs. Approximately half a million unaccompanied alien children have been admitted, with most expected to enroll in public schools. This translates to substantial financial implications, with the average annual cost per student estimated at $18,000. That brings a staggering total of $9 billion per year, with states assuming over 90 percent of the expense.

Healthcare Costs in a Changing Landscape

The healthcare expenses associated with absorbing millions of newly arrived individuals into Medicaid and Medicare are another looming concern. The average individual entering under Biden’s regime tends to be less educated and skilled than the typical American, contributing to apprehensions regarding public spending. In 2024, average healthcare spending per person exceeded $13,000. If only one in five undocumented immigrants relies on government or charity healthcare, this could lead to an annual cost of about $26 billion.

Challenges Posed by Increased Crime Rates

Alongside financial burdens, the issue of crime remains central to the ongoing border discussion. Many migrants entering the U.S. under Biden include individuals with criminal backgrounds. Reports indicate that some residing at the Roosevelt Hotel have committed serious offenses ranging from theft to gang-related activities.

The Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, for instance, operated from the hotel, engaging in violent crimes that affected not only other migrants but also local residents. In 2020, New York City allocated $9.2 billion towards criminal justice efforts, and it is likely that this figure has only increased since then.

Policy Implications and Future Considerations

Progressive approaches to crime management have garnered attention; however, such policies have often resulted in heightened dangers for urban communities and declining living conditions. In response, candidates advocating for law enforcement have begun to take office, but this shift will require additional funds for police, legal proceedings, and correctional facilities.

A Long-Term Financial Burden

As Biden’s border policies continue to unfold, the financial ramifications are sure to mount. The inevitable costs will persist until two key outcomes occur: an undocumented individual is successfully removed, or they gain legal status and subsequently contribute more in taxes than they consume in social benefits. This situation will require careful navigation and time, and for many, the consequences will be felt for years to come.