Austin News

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) confronted U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra during a Senate Finance Committee hearing regarding the treatment and welfare of migrant children placed with sponsors in the U.S. Amid concerns of abuse and trafficking, Senator Cornyn questioned Secretary Becerra on the Biden administration's oversight of over 85,000 migrant children.

"Any unaccompanied children who come to our border are basically transferred to your care by the Border Patrol, correct?" Senator Cornyn asked, to which Secretary Becerra affirmed, "That’s correct." The exchange continued as Senator Cornyn inquired about the whereabouts of the approximately 400,000 unaccompanied children who have arrived in the U.S. during President Biden's term.

"We could give you information on the vetting process and the sponsors," Secretary Becerra responded. However, when pressed further about the children's current locations and well-being, Secretary Becerra's responses appeared evasive. Senator Cornyn expressed his concerns about the lack of clarity regarding the children's welfare, stating, "You don’t know whether they’re being trafficked for sex, whether they’re being forced into dangerous jobs or child labor."

The intense questioning culminated in Senator Cornyn reminding Secretary Becerra of his responsibilities, saying, "You have a job to do right now. You have about a $1.8 trillion budget, and you have the responsibility for taking care of these children."

The exchange between Senator Cornyn and Secretary Becerra sheds light on the growing concerns surrounding the welfare and safety of migrant children under the care of the U.S. government.