Mobile Courant

U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville, Mike Lee, and Roger Marshall have criticized the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for its handling of what they describe as a tuberculosis surge linked to illegal immigration. In a letter addressed to DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, the senators express concern over the spread of tuberculosis (TB) among illegal aliens released into the United States.

Senator Tuberville stated, “There are many laws on the books to combat illegal immigration and its harmful effects, and it is past time for this administration to use them.” He also attributed an increase in TB cases to what he perceives as lax border policies by the Biden administration.

The letter demands that Secretary Mayorkas provide answers by November 13, 2024, regarding whether individuals with TB are being released into the U.S. and what preventive measures are in place. The senators argue that current policies endanger American lives and health due to unscreened immigrants entering the country.

Tuberville emphasized that since Joe Biden's presidency began, there has been a rise in TB cases between 2022 and 2023. He noted that “innocent Americans like Laken Riley and Jocelyn Nungaray have been brutally murdered by illegal aliens,” highlighting concerns about crime associated with illegal immigration.

The letter further claims that foreign-born persons pose a significant risk for spreading TB within the U.S., citing data from organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and National Institutes of Health (NIH).

The senators urge action from Secretary Mayorkas to reinstate certain border security measures such as Title 42 expulsion authority. They emphasize that these steps are necessary to protect American citizens' health and safety.

Secretary Mayorkas has yet to respond publicly to these demands or provide details on any specific plans addressing the issue raised by the senators.