In an era where threats to our national security seem endless and border protections are more critical than ever, we face a glaring example of why America’s immigration policies must be the unapologetic defense of our homeland. A Chinese illegal alien, Xiaoquin Yan, who entered the U.S. on an F-1 student visa and subsequently overstayed, was found guilty of setting fire to the historic First Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama—a place of worship standing tall since 1916. This blatant attack caused extensive damage, not only to property estimated in the tens of thousands of dollars but also to the fabric of a community founded on faith and tradition.
Such acts, once incomprehensible on American soil, underscore the urgency of the “America First” approach championed by the MAGA movement. President Trump famously declared, “If we don’t have borders, we don’t have a country.” Incidents like Yan’s arson underscore the foresight of these words, reminding us all that security is not a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Yan’s subsequent escape from a federal prison, although quickly thwarted, adds insult to injury. A federal grand jury has now indicted her for this escape attempt, which if convicted, could add another five years to her sentence. The case highlights gaps in the current system—a system in need of reform to ensure such breaches are prevented.
When foreign nationals overstay their visas and engage in criminal behavior that undermines our communities, we’re left vulnerable. It’s not just about one individual or one crime; it’s about the principle that we must uphold our laws to maintain order and safety. The question we must ask ourselves is: How many more Yan-like cases do we need before we act decisively?
President Trump’s administration made great strides in prioritizing border security and visa enforcement. Building the wall was not just a campaign slogan but a step toward tangible border integrity. Our laws regarding visa overstays need equal rigor. According to the Department of Homeland Security, hundreds of thousands overstay their visas annually, creating a silent yet profound breach of our national security.
Critics of strict immigration policies often decry them as inhumane or xenophobic. But they ignore America’s founding principle of lawful governance. In truth, enforcing immigration laws is about fairness—to those who immigrate lawfully, to citizens affected by crime, and to every taxpayer footing the bill for systems overburdened by illegal entries.
The Left often claims any critique of illegal immigration equates to racism or intolerance. Yet, what could be more intolerant than allowing criminals to operate unchecked within our borders? Rep. Jim Jordan argues, “The American people deserve secure borders, lower crime, lower drug trafficking, and lower human trafficking.” Failing to address visa overstays and illegal immigration undermines these critical goals.
Americans have witnessed the impacts of leniency firsthand and they’re demanding change. The MAGA movement’s core message resonates now more than ever: It is time to prioritize our citizens’ safety, ensuring that every immigrant plays by the rules set forth by our nation. We cannot afford complacency—a crack in security is a crack in the foundation of America itself.
As patriots, many have fought and bled for our country’s sovereignty. Upholding this sovereignty means taking decisive action against those who bypass our laws and threaten our way of life. It’s not just about border patrols or detention centers—it’s about a comprehensive overhaul ensuring our homeland remains safe and sovereign.
In light of these challenges, returning to policies that protect American values is paramount. We must look to leadership willing to stand firm against illegal immigration and visa overstays. Only through strong policy and unwavering resolve will we maintain a nation of law, order, and justice—values that define the America we all cherish and strive to protect.
