Former National Border Patrol Council President Brandon Judd anticipates significant changes for border towns and law enforcement under President-elect Trump's immigration policies. In an interview with Fox News Digital, Judd highlighted Trump's focus on addressing illegal immigration, which he believes will alleviate the strain on Border Patrol agents and local police along the southern border.

Trump's proposed policies include stricter enforcement against individuals with criminal convictions and those who have ignored removal orders. He also plans to reinstate the "Remain in Mexico" policy, which requires asylum seekers to stay in Mexico while awaiting their U.S. court dates. Judd believes this policy will free up local law enforcement to focus on their primary responsibilities, rather than dealing with the consequences of illegal immigration and drug trafficking.

Judd emphasized the economic impact of illegal immigration, citing the substantial profits cartels make from smuggling people across the border. He believes that stricter enforcement will disrupt these criminal operations. He also noted that Trump's previous immigration policies were the most effective during his tenure, leading to a decrease in both illegal crossings and drug trafficking.

Concerns have been raised about a potential surge in illegal crossings before Trump's inauguration, with some areas reporting an increase in smuggling attempts. Sheriff Mark Dannels of Cochise County, Arizona, expressed his belief that cartels are trying to exploit the remaining time before Trump's stricter policies are implemented.

Judd compared the current border situation to previous administrations, highlighting the widespread nature of the challenge. He noted that under previous presidents, there were typically two or three "hot spots" along the border. However, under the Biden administration, the entire southwest border has experienced a significant increase in illegal crossings.

The increasing foreign-born population in the U.S., partly attributed to illegal immigration, has also been a topic of discussion. Judd emphasized the unprecedented nature of the current situation, stating that the border has never experienced such widespread strain.

The role of local law enforcement in immigration enforcement is also expected to change. The 287(g) program, which allows local officers to act as immigration officers, is expected to be utilized more extensively. However, the question of additional funding for local police departments to support these efforts remains unresolved.