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Obama Sends 1,200 National Guard Troops to Border, Requests $500 Million for Enhanced Security

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

President Barack Obama has announced a deployment of up to 1,200 National Guard troops to the U.S.-Mexico border, a move aimed at bolstering border security as the Senate was set to take up a broader immigration bill. The decision comes as part of a broader effort to address concerns over immigration and border security, which has been a contentious issue in recent years.

Key Takeaways:

  • The National Guard deployment is designed to be a temporary measure, with the goal of augmenting border security until more permanent solutions can be implemented.
  • The deployment will involve up to 1,200 troops, with a mission to complement the existing security partnership with Mexico and help stem the flow of firearms and funds into Mexico.
  • The White House has requested $500 million to pay for the troop deployment and to boost federal customs, drug and immigration authorities.
  • The deployment has been met with skepticism from some lawmakers, including Sen. John McCain, who stated that the 1,200 troops are insufficient, saying "It's about one-fourth of what we need."
  • Immigration advocacy groups, such as America's Voice, have criticized the move, calling it a "one-upmanship" that fails to address the root causes of immigration.
  • The deployment marks a departure from previous presidential approaches to border security, with President George W. Bush sending National Guard troops to build fencing and provide surveillance and support to the Border Patrol in 2006.

Statistics:

  • Up to 1,200 National Guard troops will be deployed to the U.S.-Mexico border.
  • The deployment is expected to cost $500 million.
  • The National Guard will not be involved in enforcing immigration laws.
  • The deployment is a temporary measure, intended to augment border security until more permanent solutions can be implemented.
  • Crime and illegal border crossings in Arizona are approximately as low as they have been in 30 years.

Sources:

  • "White House sends up to 1,200 National Guard troops to U.S.-Mexico border," by Stephen Dinan, The Washington Times.
  • "Obama Deploys National Guard Troops to Mexico Border," by Associated Press.
  • Letter from National Security Adviser James L. Jones and Mr. Obama's homeland security adviser, John O. Brennan, to Congress.

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