On the bustling streets of Nogales, Mexico — where vendors mingle with pedestrians and the National Guard keeps quiet watch — locals are feeling the effects of President Donald Trump’s second term, especially when it comes to crime and border security.
“Drug trafficking has been controlled a lot. There’s barely any now,” said Filiberto, a photography shop owner just steps from the U.S. entry point. “It’s not like it used to be.”
Juan, who runs a small food stand, said the past couple of years have been calmer. “We’ve gone through very tough times. But lately, it’s been better in terms of insecurity.”
Opinions vary across the border town. Angelica, a flower shop owner, said, “I don’t know if it’s the same or worse. But in my neighborhood, thank God, I live peacefully.” Some credit Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum for improved conditions, while others point to changing U.S. policies.
Locals noted how the Trump administration’s deportation efforts led to the creation of shelters in anticipation of a migrant surge — shelters that never filled. “They were practically empty,” Filiberto said. “Ten, 15, maybe 30 people a day. They dismantled them.”
Nogales Mayor Juan Francisco Gim Nogales confirmed the low turnout. “We receive 60 migrants on average. Nothing close to what we expected,” he told Fox News Digital.
Trump’s firm border stance appears to be changing behavior. “There aren’t as many people wanting to cross anymore,” Juan said. “The National Guard watches the border closely. We’ve never had as much calm as we do today.”
But while some still try to cross, others are rethinking the journey. “People are starting to think about going back or staying put,” said Mario, a local shop owner. A new vendor summed up the mood: “The border is very well guarded. But people always want a better life.”