(NewsNation) — Many migrants cross illegally into the U.S. looking for jobs, safety and a better life overall. But the overwhelming number of people crossing leave many of them without work, homes, or a place to go, and that’s affecting cities and suburbs throughout the country.
South Dakota GOP Gov. Kristi Noem discussed the challenges her state faces due to the influx of immigrants in a Wednesday interview on NewsNation’s “On Balance.” She, along with 24 other GOP governors, have expressed support for Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s efforts to assert control at the southern border.
That is one way the governors are trying to disincentivize migrants from crossing their borders. Another way is through mandating businesses to establish “E-verify.”
E-verify is a system that verifies the identity of individuals seeking employment, ensuring they are not hired illegally. In May 2023, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis mandated E-verify in the state to “combat Biden’s border crisis.”
This legislation makes using E-verify mandatory for any employer with 25 or more employees, imposes enforceable penalties for those employing undocumented immigrants and enhances penalties for human smuggling.
“Because it’s not the law today doesn’t mean that as a governor, I’m going to come in and mandate it and force it on our businesses, but I certainly have always supported E-verify,” Noem said.
South Dakota’s approach to E-verify is voluntary rather than mandatory, with the state ranking low in both employer participation and usage. When asked about this, Noem attributed it to South Dakota’s preference for avoiding government mandates. She emphasized that businesses in the state voluntarily embrace E-verify due to the “patriotic” spirit of South Dakotans, who support upholding laws and regulations.
“I choose to inform my folks on what the options are and E-verify may be a choice that we make. But I believe a lot of times that those debates need to include the cooperation with the legislative leadership, as well,” Noem said.
Noem highlighted her state’s commitment to border security, mentioning that South Dakota was the first state to deploy the National Guard to the southern border more than three years ago.
Noem expressed concern about the effects of illegal immigration on South Dakota, citing cartel presence on tribal reservations, drug and human trafficking and the strain on local, state and federal resources.
She advocated for the deportation of those who entered the country illegally and expressed frustration with the Biden administration’s approach, labeling the situation at the southern border as an invasion and declaring it a war zone.