In a recent episode of the Secured Podcast, hosts Mike Matranga from M6 Global Defense and Mike Monsive from ASAP Security Services discussed the complexities and challenges of immigration, particularly illegal immigration, and its impact on American communities.
Rebranding the Podcast: A Broader Scope
The episode began with a brief discussion on the podcast's rebranding from "SecureEd" to "Secured." Originally focused on school security, the rebranded podcast now encompasses broader security topics, including critical infrastructure, military, and law enforcement. The change reflects the hosts' commitment to discussing a wide range of security issues affecting local, state, and federal levels.
Immigration at the Epicenter: Texas
Given their base in Texas, Matranga and Monsive have firsthand experience with the immigration crisis at the southern border. They emphasized that those who haven't visited the Rio Grande Valley cannot fully grasp the scale of the issue. The hosts described the significant resources Texas has deployed, including state troopers and border patrol agents, to manage the situation. This massive effort includes renting hotels for law enforcement and establishing a strong presence along key routes.
Impact on Local Communities
The hosts highlighted the severe impact of illegal immigration on local communities. They detailed how the influx of immigrants strains resources, from healthcare facilities to law enforcement. Matranga noted that many immigrants end up in emergency rooms for free medical treatment, overwhelming the healthcare system. Additionally, the cost of transporting immigrants to other states, chartering planes and buses, further burdens taxpayers.
Changing Demographics
Monsive pointed out that the demographic makeup of illegal immigrants has drastically changed. It is no longer predominantly individuals from Mexico and Central America. Instead, people from various countries, including China and countries with hostile stances toward the U.S., are crossing the border. This shift includes well-dressed, highly educated individuals and military-age men, raising national security concerns.
Political and Financial Ramifications
The discussion also touched on the political and financial aspects of immigration. The hosts criticized the lack of bipartisan cooperation in addressing the issue. They argued that both political parties use immigration as a campaign tool rather than seeking genuine solutions. Matranga and Monsive emphasized that the financial cost of managing illegal immigration far exceeds what would have been spent on preventative measures like building a wall.
The episode concluded with a call for a pragmatic and unified approach to immigration. Matranga and Monsive stressed that the issue transcends political affiliations and is fundamentally about maintaining the sovereignty and security of the United States. They urged Americans to elect leaders committed to serving the nation's best interests rather than their party or personal gain.
By addressing these challenges head-on and fostering cooperation across the political spectrum, the hosts believe that meaningful progress can be made in resolving the immigration crisis and safeguarding American communities.
