In Prescott, Arizona, former President Donald Trump unveiled his major plan to bolster America’s border security, centering on hiring 10,000 new border patrol agents and increasing current agents’ pay.
At a Glance
- Trump plans to hire 10,000 more border patrol agents, promising bonuses.
- The U.S.-Mexico border remains a central campaign issue for Trump.
- The Border Patrol union endorsed Trump’s proposal at an Arizona rally.
- Trump criticized current policies, blaming them for a border crisis.
Strengthening Border Security
Former President Donald Trump announced plans to hire 10,000 new border patrol agents, also offering a $10,000 retention and signing bonus. This initiative addresses what he describes as a crisis caused by the Biden-Harris administration’s immigration policies, emphasizing that low morale among border agents is due to “insufficient” current governmental strategies.
The announcement made at a campaign rally in Arizona, received backing from the Border Patrol union. Union leaders support Trump’s proposal as a much-needed response to address their concerns over staffing and compensation. Trump assured the agents of his unwavering support, promising a request to Congress for a 10% raise if re-elected.
Breaking: Trump to unveil plan to expand border patrol, reward existing agents with raises https://t.co/Pfb2RCrTsC
— Just the News (@JustTheNews) October 13, 2024
Criticism of Current Immigration Policies
Trump heavily criticized the Biden-Harris administration’s immigration approach, attributing a rise in unauthorized border crossings to Vice President Kamala Harris, who he and allies refer to as the “border czar.” Allegedly, Trump previously obstructed a bipartisan immigration bill with funding for more border personnel, focusing on fortifying his position instead.
Moreover, he contrasted the border management during his term with the current administration, highlighting lower unauthorized crossing numbers under his leadership. The endorsement of Trump by the Border Patrol union remains unacknowledged by Harris’s representatives as of now.
Trump calls for adding 10,000 Border Patrol agents after derailing a bipartisan border bill https://t.co/xFPyipJ2TN
— KUSI News (@KUSINews) October 14, 2024
Trump’s Broader Vision for the Border
Trump firmly positioned the U.S.-Mexico border as a pivotal issue for his 2024 campaign. His broader plan includes finishing the border wall and maintaining stringent measures against illegal crossings. Despite criticism, Trump pledged dedication to addressing border issues with measures like enhanced security personnel compensation, intending to revive morale and improve operational readiness among border agents.
Trump’s campaign and forthcoming election promises revolve significantly around immigration reform and border policies, appealing to those concerned about national security and sovereignty. Regardless of political criticism, his assertions on border control as a critical national issue resonate strongly with his supporters.
Sources:
- Trump pledges raises and 10,000 more agents in border plan
- Trump Pledges 10,000 Extra Border Agents in Fight With Harris Over Immigration
