The National Border Patrol Council (NBPC), the union representing nearly 18,000 Border Patrol agents, has officially endorsed former President Donald Trump for the 2024 presidential election. The announcement signals a major endorsement from a key law enforcement group that has been a staunch supporter of Trump's hardline immigration policies during his time in office.
In a statement released on Wednesday, NBPC President Brandon Judd praised Trump for his unwavering support of Border Patrol agents and his dedication to securing the U.S.-Mexico border, calling him the only candidate capable of addressing the current border crisis. “We need Trump back,” Judd said. “Under his leadership, we had the most secure border in our nation’s history. It’s time to return to that level of commitment to the safety and security of the American people.”
The endorsement, which comes as the 2024 presidential race heats up, highlights the continued support Trump enjoys among law enforcement groups, particularly those focused on immigration and border security. The NBPC previously endorsed Trump in both the 2016 and 2020 elections, citing his strong border enforcement policies, including the construction of a border wall and stricter immigration controls.
The union’s endorsement was not without controversy, as Trump’s policies, such as family separations and detaining asylum seekers, have drawn criticism from human rights organizations and Democratic lawmakers. Nonetheless, NBPC leaders argue that Trump’s measures were necessary to combat illegal immigration and protect American citizens.
“He’s the only candidate who understands what’s truly happening at our border,” Judd continued. “The situation is worse than ever, and we need a leader who is committed to fixing it. President Trump did it once, and we know he can do it again.”
The endorsement comes as the U.S. continues to grapple with a surge in migrants at the southern border. Critics of the current administration, including Trump, have blamed President Joe Biden for what they describe as a "border crisis," citing record numbers of illegal crossings and overwhelming strain on Border Patrol resources. The NBPC’s support for Trump underscores the belief among many agents that his policies were effective in reducing illegal immigration.
Trump responded to the endorsement with a statement thanking the NBPC for their continued support. "I am honored to have the endorsement of the National Border Patrol Council once again," he said. "Our brave Border Patrol agents are the frontline defenders of our nation, and they know that under my leadership, America had the strongest, safest border policies. Together, we will restore law and order at our borders and keep our country safe."
While Trump remains a polarizing figure in American politics, his appeal to law enforcement and conservative voters remains strong, particularly on issues of immigration and border security. His endorsement from the NBPC could boost his campaign as he seeks to regain the presidency in 2024.
As the race moves forward, border security is expected to be a central issue in the campaign, with Trump positioning himself as the candidate most capable of handling the ongoing challenges at the southern border.
The NBPC's endorsement is likely to further energize Trump's base of supporters, particularly those who view immigration and border control as critical issues in the upcoming election. Whether it will sway undecided voters or change the course of the race remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Trump has the backing of those on the front lines of border enforcement.