Retired ICE-HSI agent Victor Avila joined Joe Pags to offer his expert analysis on the border crisis, highlighting urgent issues like the disappearance of over 300,000 children, the recent extension of the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program, and the challenges facing President-elect Trump’s administration on Day 1.
Avila didn’t hold back, calling the TPS program’s extension under the Biden administration “completely illegal” and outlining its consequences. TPS, he explained, allows individuals from certain countries, such as Sudan and Venezuela, to remain in the U.S. with work permits and other benefits. “Biden has extended that status… for another 18 months, which is going to make it very difficult for the Trump administration to deport these individuals,” Avila said. Despite the challenges, he expressed confidence that the incoming administration would find ways to address the situation.
Another critical topic was the alarming number of missing children in the U.S., many of whom have been trafficked by cartels. Avila described the issue as a top priority for law enforcement and the Trump administration. “We have to find them. These are innocent children… we are going to find them,” he said, emphasizing his expertise in human trafficking investigations.
Avila also discussed the growing tension between federal and local governments over immigration enforcement. Sanctuary cities, he noted, often refuse to cooperate with federal immigration authorities, creating significant roadblocks. “That’s the biggest problem… the pushback and the non-compliance of some of these counties,” Avila explained.
In addition to these pressing matters, Avila highlighted the dangers posed by cartels and their evolving strategies to circumvent border security. He described how caravans attempting to enter the U.S. are being strategically broken into smaller groups to avoid detection. “We have to join forces—there is no other way,” he said, stressing the need for collaboration between the U.S. and Mexico to dismantle these criminal networks.
This exclusive interview with Victor Avila provided a compelling look at the complexities of the border crisis and the critical actions needed to address it. With President-elect Trump’s administration preparing to take office, Avila’s insights offer a sobering yet hopeful perspective on tackling these challenges head-on.