The chief of the U.S. Border Patrol expressed mixed views on the Senate border bill, emphasizing the need for compromise and congressional cooperation.
He highlighted the bill’s potential improvements for the agency, such as increased staffing and technology, while also acknowledging its drawbacks.
“And, as long as there’s no action coming out of Congress, we’re languishing in the same situation. So I don’t think there’s anybody that says that the bill has to have everything that we need in order for us to accept [it] – that’s why we have compromise,” Jason Owens said.
Critics have raised concerns about provisions directing litigation and emergency powers thresholds.
“There are definitely aspects of that bill that I liked for the agency. And there are aspects of it that, of course, I didn’t,” Owens said.
The chief stressed the need for more resources and personnel to enhance border security and deter cartels from exploiting migrant influxes.
He emphasized the importance of addressing the issue of single adult males crossing the border.
“We need more people. We need more agents on the line. They need more force multipliers in the way of technology and equipment infrastructure that doesn’t just help them do their job better, it helps keep them safe,” Owens said.
“I am disappointed. And I would tell [Congress], don’t stop: Keep working together and come to a consensus that helps us keep this country safe.”
“While we’re busy doing this, the cartels are taking full advantage of it somewhere else along the border to bring in who knows what and who knows who,” Owens said. “These are the types of things like fentanyl, like other hard narcotics and hardened criminals that do represent a danger to our community.”
“So as long as we’re stuck having to deal with a migrant influx, we cannot be out on patrol.”
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