Did Trump Build a Wall Along the Entire Southern Border?
The assertion that former U.S. President Donald Trump built a wall along the entire southern border has been widely contested. Geographical and logistical challenges make such a feat nearly impossible. During his presidency, only a limited amount of new border barrier fencing was constructed. This article will explore the facts and challenges surrounding the construction of the border wall during the Trump administration.
The Geographical Challenges Along the Southern Border
The U.S. southern border, which extends along the Rio Grande River in Texas and into New Mexico, Arizona, and California, presents significant geographical challenges. The border along the Rio Grande River is defined by the river itself, which is over 1275 miles long. This distance is comparable to the journey from New York City to Miami, Florida. Given the shifting nature of the river banks and the variable soil conditions, only 40 miles of new border barrier fencing was constructed during the Trump presidency. This limited construction primarily occurred in the area close to the southern edge of Texas, where the construction of a continuous wall along the river's edge faced considerable challenges.
The Cost and Controversy Around the Border Wall Construction
The cost of the border wall was astronomical, estimated at 15 billion dollars, with a significant portion of this money never making it to the intended project. According to reports, much of the funding was stolen by friends of Trump, including Steve Bannon. Despite the significant budget allocated for the project, only a portion of the wall was constructed, with approximately 50-55 miles of fencing being replaced or allegedly improved. Concerns have been raised about the quality of the work, with one 'improved' section reportedly collapsing due to poor site preparation.
Logistical Challenges and the Demand for Boundary Crossing Tools
The fragmentation of the border makes it difficult to build a continuous wall. As a result, many sections of the existing barrier fencing were repaired or refurbished. Despite the presence of barriers, the demand for tools and skills necessary to cross the border illegally has increased. Ladders, ropes, hand-held cutting tools, and even tunnelling gear are becoming more commonly used by individuals seeking to enter the United States illegally.
Outcomes and Controversies
Former White House Chief Strategist Steve Bannon faced criminal charges for embezzlement, although he was pardoned by President Trump before being formally prosecuted. The accomplices who were not pardoned remain in jail. Additionally, the initial funding meant for improving border security infrastructure has either gone missing or was never intended to be sent to the border project.
In conclusion, while the Trump administration took significant steps to enhance border security, claims of a complete wall along the entire southern border are misleading. The geography, cost issues, and logistical challenges made the construction of a continuous border wall unfeasible. The controversy surrounding the border wall remains a topic of debate and scrutiny.