House Lawmakers Investigate NGOs’ Role in Immigration Crisis
House lawmakers are looking into the involvement of various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in the illegal immigration situation that escalated during the Biden administration.
The House Homeland Security Committee has scheduled a hearing for Wednesday to explore how these independent organizations, some of which are considered left-leaning, might have benefited from the unprecedented crisis at the border. A key issue is whether taxpayer funds were utilized to encourage illegal immigration.
Michael Guest, who chairs a border security subcommittee, spoke out about the situation, saying, “This committee has been quite critical of Secretary Mayorkas for not enforcing immigration laws that have been passed with bipartisan support.” He added that what many may not realize is that the Biden-Harris administration struggled to execute its own open-border policy, requiring support from federal government-funded NGOs.
This ongoing investigation stems from a significant border crisis. Data from Customs and Border Protection indicates that 2023 and 2024 saw the highest number of migrant encounters in recent history. In total, about 8.5 million migrants were recorded crossing the U.S.-Mexican border during the Biden administration, which has led to analyses suggesting that this represents the largest net immigration in U.S. history.
While former President Trump had notable success in managing border control, doubts linger regarding how the current crisis was exacerbated and who’s footing the bill. Some GOP members assert that they effectively rolled out the red carpet for waves of illegal immigration while numerous NGOs reaped financial benefits from the administration.
Guest claimed, “These organizations, which received billions from taxpayers, have reportedly aided the Biden-Harris administration in releasing unprecedented numbers of undocumented individuals into communities.” He criticized the use of taxpayer money to secure hotel accommodations for illegal immigrants instead of utilizing existing detention facilities.
Moreover, FEMA has reportedly channeled grants to many NGOs as part of the Shelter and Services Program. Reports from the Department of Homeland Security indicate that these organizations have spent significant taxpayer funds to provide assistance—like transport and hotel stays—to illegal immigrants recently released from custody.
The investigation into these NGOs continues. As part of this effort, the committee has requested documentation from over 200 NGOs regarding their operations, including a coalition linked to anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles. Additionally, a letter was sent to the Chinese American Planning Council after footage surfaced purportedly showing a seminar aimed at evading immigration enforcement. This group has also benefitted from donations linked to Chinese government entities.
Mike Howell, president of the Surveillance Project, remarked on the severity of the situation, describing it as the “worst border invasion in history.” He emphasized that this crisis has roots in a “partnership” between radical elements and governmental support. Experts and advocates are expected to present their insights during the committee hearing.
