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Senator Roger Marshall Advocates for Comprehensive Border Security with One Big Beautiful Bill
Our nation stands at a critical juncture. Under the leadership of President Donald Trump and Homeland Security Secretary Noem, significant strides have been made to secure our borders. We now face a choice to either build upon this success by providing law enforcement with the necessary resources through the One Big Beautiful Bill, or allow the sacrifices of our dedicated personnel to be in vain.
The achievements of Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Coast Guard, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) are impressive, especially given the challenges of our extensive southern border. They have managed to reduce daily encounters with illegal aliens by an astounding 95%. Additionally, authorities have seized billions in illicit drugs, including over 3,000 pounds of fentanyl, and have deported numerous gang members and potential terrorists.
Military Support for Border Security
On the first day of President Trump’s second term, he mobilized U.S. military forces to assist in securing our borders and safeguarding our homeland. This includes support from Kansas’ own 1st Infantry Division, also known as “The Big Red One,” stationed at Fort Riley and deployed to crucial locations like Fort Huachuca in Sierra Vista, Arizona.
Recently, I visited the southern border with Kansas law enforcement officers to express my gratitude for the service of these soldiers and all CBP personnel. What I witnessed was encouraging—spirits are high, and there is visible determination among the ranks. Nevertheless, the challenges remain substantial, and resources are limited.
Current Challenges in Border Security
Regrettably, one-third of the cameras used by CBP to monitor the extensive border are currently nonfunctional. Efforts to construct nearly 80 miles of border wall are commendable, yet camera technology is essential for monitoring areas that remain unprotected. We require these cameras and the completion of the border wall to prevent any future administration from reopening our borders indiscriminately.
CBP is tasked with patrolling an impressive 2,000 miles of southern border, much of which is characterized by hostile and challenging terrain. Unfortunately, their vehicle fleet is inadequate for the job, hampering their operational effectiveness.
In response to closed land borders, drug cartels have turned to maritime smuggling routes. This development poses an additional threat as the Coast Guard, responsible for maritime security, is confronting its most pressing readiness crisis since World War II. The aging fleet, coupled with manpower shortages and funding issues, has led to the closure of six stations. This has resulted in the Coast Guard missing recruitment targets for four consecutive years under the Biden administration. However, Secretary Noem’s leadership has helped halt this decline, and we are beginning to see new recruits join the ranks. Congress must now step up to provide the necessary support to dismantle the cartel operations fully.
The Consequences of Inaction
Under the current administration, over 1.7 million illegal immigrants have successfully evaded detection by Border Patrol. This alarming figure includes numerous dangerous individuals such as gang members and violent criminals. ICE has been so effective at apprehending these offenders that facilities are running out of space to house them in preparation for deportation. Furthermore, the absence of adequate personnel in ICE increases the difficulty of meeting the ambitious goal set by President Trump to deport 1 million illegal immigrants annually.
To meet the demands of our brave law enforcement officers and military personnel, we must allocate more funding, manpower, and equipment. With the House presenting the One Big Beautiful Bill, it is now imperative that we advance this legislation to the President’s desk.
Funding the Future of Border Security
Passing this significant bill is essential to ensuring that our border remains secure. It allocates over $46 billion for the completion of the border wall and the repair of non-operational cameras. Additionally, it designates $1 billion for CBP to upgrade its outdated vehicle fleet.
The Coast Guard will receive $21 billion for the acquisition of new cutters, aircraft, and the recruitment of 15,000 additional personnel. Each dollar invested will aid in dismantling smuggling networks and preventing fentanyl—a lethal drug that has claimed countless American lives—from infiltrating our communities.
Moreover, the bill provides ICE with the resources needed to recruit and train 10,000 new agents. This increase in personnel is vital as ICE agents confront some of the most dangerous criminals in the nation daily. Recently, an ICE officer sustained injuries while apprehending a criminal alien. The demand for additional support is urgent, and we should have acted yesterday.
Time to Act on Border Security
Championship teams recognize that the work does not stop during the offseason. Drafting, training, and preparing new players is critical for a successful run. Similarly, we have earned a temporary reprieve in border security, but our achievements could be undone if we neglect to build on them.
Those working tirelessly on the ground are committed to maintaining safety and security. They deserve our unwavering support. Now is the time for the Senate to provide them with the tools needed to continue their vital work. It is essential for us to pass the One Big Beautiful Bill to bolster our border security efforts.
