National Border Patrol Union Sounds Alarm Over Vice President Harris’ Controversial Visit to Douglas, AZ

By Daniel Stefanski |

The National Border Patrol union has criticized Vice President Kamala Harris for her recent visit to the U.S.-Mexico border. Last Friday, Harris toured the border in Douglas, Arizona, where she emphasized her prior experience as California’s Attorney General in tackling transnational criminal organizations. She also highlighted her discussions with Customs and Border Protection officials regarding efforts to combat illegal fentanyl trafficking.

The Border Patrol union, however, expressed discontent with Harris’ visit and statements. In a post on social media, they stated, “Vice President Harris has ignored the border problem she created for over three years. She goes down there for 20 minutes for a photo op and decides to repeat some of the things the NBPC has said before. But again, where has she been the last 3½ years?”

Former President Donald Trump also weighed in, calling Harris a “border czar” who has failed in her responsibilities. On Truth Social, he stated, “Comrade Kamala Harris, who allowed almost 14,000 MURDERERS to freely roam our Country, is now making a Speech in Douglas, Arizona, trying to say she did an OK job with the Border. SHE HAS GOT BLOOD ON HER HANDS!”

Before meeting officials in Arizona, Art Del Cueto, Vice President of the National Border Patrol Council, criticized the Biden administration’s border policies. On Instagram, he highlighted areas where border wall construction had ceased, implying a lack of commitment to border security from the current leadership. He claimed, “This is where President Trump built the wall during his administration to protect American lives.”

Harris’ trip marked her first visit to this section of the Arizona border while serving as Vice President. Previously, she had visited the El Paso sector. In 2021, Mark Brnovich, then Arizona Attorney General, extended an invitation to Harris for a border tour, stating that it would provide her with valuable insights into local issues. However, his invitation went unanswered.

Brnovich later urged President Biden to replace Harris as the “border czar,” citing her lack of engagement with the ongoing border crisis. He described her inaction as a disservice to Arizonans who voted for the administration. Similarly, Mark Dannels, sheriff of the area Harris visited, stressed the need for her presence, noting a significant gap in prioritization and engagement from the Vice President.

Dannels remarked, “For her not to come in the next 78 days … sends a very strong message.” The ongoing debate highlights the complexities and challenges facing border policy in the current political climate.

Daniel Stefanski is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.