Democratic control of both chambers could slow deportations, activists say
Mexican border groups anticipate a shift in U.S. policy as the new Congress convenes in January 2027.
By Chioma Kuznetsov ·
The Democratic victory in the recent U.S. midterm elections has shifted the balance of power in Washington. The party regained control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate, creating a new political dynamic for President Donald Trump during the second half of his second term.
This legislative shift gives the Democratic opposition greater authority to oversee executive decisions, conduct investigations, and block new legislation. However, the change in congressional control, which takes effect in January 2027, does not automatically pause current deportation operations or border enforcement actions. Those policies remain under the direct control of the executive branch led by Trump.
In Tijuana, the largest city on the U.S.-Mexico border, organizations that support migrants are watching the election results with cautious optimism. They believe the new majority may alter the trajectory of U.S. migration policy, though the extent of any changes will depend on legislative actions and the president's response.
José María García Lara, director of Movimiento Juventud 2000 and coordinator of the Tijuana Migrant Alliance, noted that the outcome could lead to policy adjustments. He stated, “Perhaps there may be changes, we really do not know. That is now in the hands of U.S. citizens, of what they are living.”
García Lara observed that despite increased border security and low occupancy rates in Tijuana shelters, migrants continue to arrive. He added, “They keep arriving here that are not visible because the shelters are even half empty.”
José Luis Pérez Canchola, a member of the Mexican Academy of Human Rights, suggested the election results might act as a check on the administration. He expressed that there is a rejection of President Trump among migrant families due to his discriminatory rhetoric. He said, “I feel that there is a rejection right now of President Trump by all migrant families for his discriminatory speech. If this happens, his persecution of migrants could stop a little.”
Pérez Canchola also reported that unaccompanied minors are being deported to Mexico daily. He estimated that one to three children arrive each day, some as young as six to eight years old, after being detained in public places such as parks, schools, and churches. Raúl Ochoa, director of the Tijuana Migrant House, warned that repatriations to distant locations make it harder for migrants to reunite with their families. He described this separation as a form of death.
