FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, January 3, 2024
Irresponsible and Reckless: Lukeville Closure
Should Have Never Happened
PHOENIX, ARIZONA— After an unprecedented and economically devastating month-long closure of the Lukeville Port of Entry, Senator T.J. Shope is demanding the Biden Administration never again take such a detrimental action against our citizens and secure our open border that's endangering Arizona communities.
"This was an irresponsible and reckless move that should have never happened. Not only did this create financial turmoil for border communities within Arizona who rely on the tourism traffic to and from Rocky Point to support their families, but the closure of the Lukeville Port of Entry also put unnecessary stress and strain on our citizens and commerce who depend on a safe and direct route to this popular destination," said Senator Shope.
"While I'm glad Lukeville is reopening on Thursday, the official statement from the federal government includes an absurd claim that 'CBP will continue to prioritize our border security mission as necessary in response to this evolving situation,' which is a blatant lie. The American people aren't dumb. Nothing has changed at the border to prompt the opening of Lukeville. Thousands of illegals, many of which are criminals and terrorists, continue to pour into our state on a daily basis, overwhelming our brave law enforcement personnel. This was purely a political move after Republican lawmakers put immense pressure on the Biden Administration to open this critical artery for commerce and legal traffic. I'm grateful for the support of Arizona's Congressional Delegation who pressed Secretary Mayorkas to reverse this closure. I will continue to demand Joe Biden secure our border once and for all, and to never again resort to closing our ports of entry."
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For more information, contact:
Kim Quintero
Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus