The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced preliminary fiscal year 2026 data showing a 95% decline in southwest border apprehensions compared with annual levels under the Biden administration. The data also showed the lowest annual nationwide encounters in CBP history.
According to the CBP, fiscal year 2026 marked the first time in agency history that the U.S. Border Patrol completed an entire fiscal year without releasing migrants into the United States.
September also marked the 17th consecutive month with zero Border Patrol releases.
The preliminary figures show that Border Patrol agents recorded 98,708 apprehensions along the southwest border during FY26, compared to an annual average exceeding 1.8 million under former President Joe Biden.
The total was also approximately 60% lower than the 249,740 apprehensions recorded during the highest single month under the Biden administration, according to DHS.
That’s right. ZERO releases for an entire fiscal year. Lowest nationwide encounters in CBP history. Our agents have worked hard for these results, and we are keeping our foot on the gas. pic.twitter.com/nVmR8WLwK5
“President Trump promised the American people a secure border, and the data proves he delivered,” stated DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin. “Over the past year, CBP recorded its lowest numbers in American history. A stark contrast to Biden, where CBP recorded its highest illegal immigration numbers ever.”
Nationwide encounters also fell to a reported 379,243 during FY26, compared to an annual average of approximately 2.7 million under the previous administration.
The latest figures represent an 88% decline from FY23, when encounters reached their highest annual level.
CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott attributed the decline to increased enforcement efforts and cooperation among federal agencies.
“FY 2026 demonstrated what focused enforcement, strong partnerships, and the commitment of our frontline personnel can achieve,” said Scott. “DHS and CBP are securing the border, stopping dangerous drugs and criminals, protecting communities, and ensuring our personnel have the resources necessary for this critical mission.”
The agency also reported a nearly 80% decline in migrant deaths identified by Border Patrol during FY26 and since President Donald Trump returned to office in January 2025, compared to levels under the Biden administration.
Despite the reduction in crossings, CBP personnel continued conducting search-and-rescue operations and providing emergency medical assistance.
During FY26, CBP’s Office of Field Operations responded to more than 3,000 medical emergencies, performed CPR on more than 50 individuals experiencing cardiac arrest, and administered naloxone to individuals experiencing suspected opioid overdoses.
In addition to declining border crossings, CBP reported completing 250 miles of new border barriers along the southwest border since January 2025. The construction includes primary and secondary barriers, waterborne barriers, and supporting surveillance technology.
The agency also obligated approximately $34.3 billion between September 2025 and September 2026 toward Smart Wall projects across the southwest border states, using funding provided through the Working Families Tax Cut Act.
CBP also reported higher drug seizure totals during the fiscal year.
Preliminary figures show the agency seized nearly 1 million pounds of illegal drugs nationwide, approximately 63% above the annual average of 600,000 pounds recorded during the previous four years.
“The results could not be clearer: strong enforcement works,” added Mullin. “Thanks to President Trump’s leadership and the hard work of CBP and DHS law enforcement personnel, we have restored control of the border and made America safer than ever.”
Beyond border enforcement, CBP reported stopping more than 4,000 shipments valued at over $325 million due to suspected forced labor violations. The agency also seized approximately 55.5 million counterfeit items with an estimated value exceeding $12.6 billion.
Among those seizures were 476,903 counterfeit items associated with FIFA World Cup intellectual property valued at more than $33 million.
DHS officials attributed the reduction in unlawful border crossings to the administration’s immigration enforcement policies and investments in border infrastructure, while highlighting increased drug seizures and trade enforcement efforts during FY26.
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low-interest federal disaster loans for small businesses and private nonprofit organizations experiencing financial losses from flash flooding at Grand Canyon National Park earlier this year.
The disaster declaration, issued October 13, follows a request from Governor Katie Hobbs on October 8 and provides assistance to eligible organizations affected by flooding that occurred between August 29 and September 3.
The declaration covers five Arizona counties, including Coconino, Gila, Mohave, Navajo, and Yavapai, as well as Kane and San Juan Counties in Utah.
Through the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, and private nonprofit organizations, including faith-based organizations, can apply for loans of up to $2 million to help offset financial losses directly related to the flooding.
The loans are intended to provide working capital for operating expenses that businesses and nonprofits would have otherwise been able to cover had the disaster not occurred. Eligible expenses include fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other financial obligations.
Businesses and nonprofits may qualify for assistance even if they did not sustain physical property damage.
Interest rates are as low as 4% for businesses and 3.625% for private nonprofit organizations, with repayment terms extending up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not required until 12 months after the first loan disbursement.
The SBA determines loan eligibility, amounts, and repayment terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.
“SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” stated Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the SBA’s Office of Disaster Recovery. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”
Congressman Eli Crane (R-AZ-02), whose congressional district includes Grand Canyon National Park, also announced the availability of the disaster assistance, encouraging affected businesses and nonprofit organizations to explore the federal program.
Following the devastating flash floods at @GrandCanyonNPS, @SBAgov has approved a disaster declaration for several counties.
If your small business suffered economic losses as a result, I encourage you to see if you qualify for a low-interest loan: pic.twitter.com/cYlcE7aMYg
“If your business or nonprofit experienced challenges caused by the flooding, I encourage you to review this avenue of assistance from the SBA,” stated Crane. “The EIDL program offers eligible applicants low-interest loans, which can help offset losses from this tragic disaster.”
Crane also emphasized the importance of continued recovery efforts for Grand Canyon communities and highlighted recent congressional action involving the North Rim Restoration Act of 2025.
“Although it’s been a difficult period for park staff, gateway communities, and local businesses, my team and I are committed to doing everything we can to assist with the recovery effort,” added Crane. “Between this week’s announcement and recent Senate action on the North Rim Restoration Act of 2025, I’m hopeful we can help deliver long-term stability to this cherished place.”
Eligible businesses and nonprofit organizations have until July 13, 2027, to submit economic injury disaster loan applications.
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
Federal prosecutors in Arizona filed immigration-related criminal charges against 279 individuals during a weeklong enforcement operation targeting illegal entry, unlawful reentry, and human smuggling along the southern border.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona, the charges were filed between October 10 and October 16, 2026, as part of ongoing federal efforts to combat illegal immigration and human smuggling throughout the state.
During the enforcement period, prosecutors filed 136 cases involving individuals accused of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed, along with charges against 123 individuals accused of illegally entering the country.
Federal authorities also filed 17 cases against 20 individuals accused of smuggling illegal immigrants into and throughout Arizona.
The cases were referred or supported by several federal law enforcement agencies, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the FBI, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Among the notable cases highlighted by federal prosecutors were charges filed October 13 against Jesus Manuel Calixtro-Rodriguez and Julio Cesar Ramos-Mendez, who were accused of conspiring to transport illegal immigrants for profit.
According to the criminal complaint, Border Patrol surveillance cameras observed Calixtro-Rodriguez driving a Dodge Ram along Federal Route 15 on the Tohono O’odham Nation on October 10. Authorities reported that he stopped near a location known for human smuggling pickups, where several individuals entered the vehicle.
When Border Patrol agents attempted to conduct an immigration inspection, Calixtro-Rodriguez allegedly refused to stop, prompting agents to deploy a tire deflation device.
The vehicle’s occupants fled on foot, but agents apprehended Calixtro-Rodriguez and three passengers, including Ramos-Mendez. Authorities determined that the passengers were Mexican nationals unlawfully present in the United States.
Investigators identified Ramos-Mendez as the group’s foot guide and discovered that he had previously been removed from the country without authorization to return. He was additionally charged with illegal reentry.
In a separate case, Christopher Paul Lopez was charged on October 9 with transporting an illegal immigrant following an October 8 traffic stop along Interstate 10.
According to federal prosecutors, an Arizona Department of Public Safety trooper discovered Lopez lying in the rear of a Land Rover and subsequently recovered a loaded Glock 19 handgun from a bag inside the vehicle.
Following further questioning, authorities suspected that Lopez and the driver were involved in human smuggling. Border Patrol agents later determined that the driver was a Mexican national unlawfully present in the United States and learned that Lopez had allegedly been paid to accompany the driver from Tucson to Phoenix.
Another case involved Jose Avendano-Soto, who was charged on October 13 with transporting an illegal immigrant after Border Patrol agents observed a group crossing the U.S.-Mexico border wall using a rope ladder.
According to the criminal complaint, seven individuals exited an SUV near the border wall on October 8. Five crossed into the United States, while two remained behind to conceal the group’s footprints before returning to Mexico.
Agents later located the five individuals hiding in vegetation while wearing camouflage clothing. Four were identified as Guatemalan nationals and one as a Mexican national, all unlawfully present in the United States.
Investigators identified Avendano-Soto as the group’s foot guide, responsible for leading the individuals across the border.
The cases reflect ongoing federal efforts to prosecute illegal border crossings, unlawful reentry, and human smuggling operations throughout Arizona.
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
Federal interest payments could consume more than half of federal tax revenue by 2036, as rising borrowing costs and mounting national debt threaten the nation’s long-term fiscal stability, according to a new report from Congress’ Joint Economic Committee (JEC).
The report, titled Federal Interest Spending Could Now Exceed Half of Available Tax Receipts in Ten Years, warns that higher interest rates could significantly increase the federal government’s debt-servicing costs, placing additional pressure on the federal budget over the next decade.
According to the JEC, net interest payments could account for 55.4% of federal receipts excluding payroll taxes by 2036 under a higher-interest-rate scenario, compared to 38.1% under the Congressional Budget Office’s (CBO) baseline projections.
The findings come as the national debt has surpassed $40 trillion, with approximately $32.4 trillion held by the public at the end of fiscal year 2026.
Interest payments could consume 55 percent of federal receipts excluding payroll taxes by 2036.Under CBO's higher-rate scenario, net interest spending would reach 55.4 percent of available tax receipts by 2036, compared with 38.1 percent under CBO's baseline projection. Even…
— Joint Economic Committee Republicans (@JECRepublicans) October 15, 2026
“We are rapidly approaching a fiscal reality where more than half of federal receipts outside of payroll taxes could go toward servicing our debt by 2036,” stated JEC Chairman and Arizona Congressman David Schweikert (R-AZ-01).
“Under this higher interest rate scenario, we could spend $23 trillion on interest alone over the next decade. That is spending not on Social Security, not on Medicare, not on national defense, but simply paying for yesterday’s borrowing,” Schweikert added.
According to the JEC, the yield on 10-year Treasury notes increased from approximately 4.2% in February to 5.2% on October 1, 2026. The increase reflects higher federal borrowing costs, raising concerns that interest rates could remain above earlier projections and place additional pressure on the federal budget.
The report draws on a recent CBO analysis examining how higher interest rates could affect federal deficits, debt, and borrowing costs between 2026 and 2036.
Under a scenario in which interest rates remain 1.5 percentage points above the CBO’s February 2026 baseline projections, cumulative federal deficits would increase by approximately $6 trillion over the next decade.
Even under a less severe scenario in which interest rates remain 0.5 percentage points above the CBO’s baseline projections, cumulative federal deficits would increase by approximately $1.9 trillion through 2036, highlighting the federal government’s growing sensitivity to borrowing costs.
Of the projected $6 trillion increase under the higher-rate scenario, approximately $4.9 trillion would result directly from higher interest costs, while an additional $1.1 trillion would come from borrowing needed to finance those increased payments.
The JEC estimates that total net interest spending could reach $23.2 trillion through 2036 under the higher-rate scenario, compared to approximately $17.2 trillion under the CBO’s baseline projections.
The report also highlights the federal government’s exposure to rising borrowing costs as existing debt matures. Approximately $10 trillion in marketable Treasury debt is expected to mature within the next year, potentially requiring refinancing at higher interest rates.
Under the higher-rate scenario, annual federal interest spending would grow by an average of 10.8% over the next decade, significantly exceeding projected annual economic growth of 3.9%.
“When interest costs are growing nearly three times faster than the economy, the math becomes impossible to ignore,” stated Schweikert. “Every dollar we borrow makes us more vulnerable to higher interest rates and leaves fewer resources for everything else. We are approaching a debt spiral that could become mathematically impossible to escape and the window to avert a full-blown fiscal crisis is rapidly closing.”
The CBO further estimates that debt held by the public could reach 133.1% of gross domestic product (GDP) by 2036 under the higher-rate scenario, compared to 120.2% under its baseline projections.
The JEC warned that without significant reductions in federal spending, rising interest obligations could leave Congress facing increasingly difficult decisions involving higher taxes, reduced government spending, or additional borrowing to meet existing financial obligations.
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
Arizona’s drug overdose death rate reached a record high in 2025, nearly doubling the national average, according to federal health data. The state’s rising death rate stands in contrast to a broader national trend, with overdose fatalities continuing to decline across much of the United States, according to a recent investigation by The New York Times.
The CDC reported an estimated 69,973 drug overdose deaths nationwide in 2025, a nearly 14% decrease from 81,313 in 2024.
While most states experienced declines, Arizona was among three states, alongside New Mexico and Colorado, that recorded increases of at least 10% during the same period.
According to a New York Times investigation, Arizona’s overdose death rate climbed to 43.5 deaths per 100,000 residents in 2025, compared to the national average of 22.1 per 100,000.
The state also surpassed West Virginia, historically considered a center of the opioid epidemic, in overdose deaths per capita for the first time since the proliferation of prescription painkillers in the late 1990s.
Arizona and neighboring New Mexico recorded the highest overdose death rates in the contiguous United States in 2025, with Arizona identified as the only state where drug deaths have remained above their post-pandemic peak.
The increase has been particularly significant in Maricopa County, where fatal drug overdoses reportedly reached a record 2,406 in 2025, up approximately 16% from 2,069 deaths in 2024, according to county public health data.
Researchers and public health officials have identified several potential contributing factors, including changes in the illicit fentanyl supply, widespread methamphetamine use, and extreme summer temperatures.
According to The New York Times, Arizona’s illicit opioid market has shifted in recent years from predominantly counterfeit prescription pills, to powdered fentanyl.
The transition occurred earlier in much of the country but has become increasingly prevalent in Arizona and New Mexico over the past two years.
Powdered fentanyl presents additional overdose risks because its potency can vary significantly between samples, making it difficult for users to determine the amount of the drug they are consuming.
Brian Clark, associate Chief of operations for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Pacific and Southwest region, told The New York Times that the Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation cartels remain the primary suppliers of fentanyl entering the United States through the southern border, although the reasons behind the regional shift from counterfeit pills to powder remain unclear.
The changing drug supply has also coincided with widespread methamphetamine use.
Arizona State University professor Raminta Daniulaityte estimated that approximately 80% to 90% of fentanyl users in the region also use meth, according to The New York Times.
Extreme heat may further compound these risks, particularly in the Phoenix metro, where summer temperatures frequently exceed 110 degrees.
A New York Timesanalysis of Maricopa County medical examiner records from 2024 through March 2026 found that drug deaths where approximately 40% higher on days when Phoenix temperatures exceeded 110 degrees.
On days when temperatures reached 115 degrees, drug deaths were nearly twice as high.
Methamphetamine can elevate heart rate and body temperature, increasing the risk of serious medical complications during prolonged exposure to extreme heat.
According to a Maricopa County heat mortality report, 55% of heat-related deaths in 2025 involved substance use, highlighting the overlap between drug use and extreme temperatures.
Despite the record number of fatalities in 2025, preliminary figures suggest overdose deaths may be beginning to decline in Arizona.
According the The New York Times, data from the Phoenix Substance Use and Overdose Dashboard showed reports of nonfatal overdoses through June 2026 were 17% lower than during the same period in 2025.
Additionally, preliminary Maricopa County medical examiner data indicated that drug-related deaths through March 2026 were below the previous year’s levels.
However, overdose deaths can take several months to investigate and classify, meaning the full extent of Arizona’s 2026 overdose trends remain uncertain.
Ethan Faverino is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.
