Former President Donald Trump criticized the Biden administration's auctioning of border wall materials during a speech at Mar-a-Lago, pledging to restore prosperity in his upcoming second term. Texas officials are reportedly taking steps to purchase and store these materials, intending to hold them until the Trump administration returns to office in January.
Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick responded to reports of ongoing auctions of these materials, left unused near the border after construction halted in 2021. On "The Ingraham Angle," Patrick declared his intention to bid on the materials, stating, "I will bid on all of that wall, and we will buy it in Texas, and we will give it to Donald Trump. I’ve got a billion dollars in my pocket to do it."
Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham expressed support for the initiative, confirming her readiness to assist with storage on state land. She condemned the Biden administration's actions as "shameful."
The Biden administration ceased border wall construction in January 2021, after approximately 450 miles had been completed during Trump's first term. While proponents argue the wall is essential for border security, critics consider it ineffective and discriminatory.
The auctioning of border wall components commenced in 2023 via GovPlanet.com, an online auction platform. The Defense Department's logistics agency explained that the surplus material, originally overseen by the Army Corps of Engineers, was now available for purchase.
These auctions have reportedly been a regular occurrence. Recent reports highlighted the transportation of unused wall sections in Arizona, despite their potential utility in the upcoming Trump administration.
President-elect Trump has committed to resuming border wall construction upon taking office. He characterized the current sale of materials as "almost a criminal act" and urged the Biden administration to halt the process.
A defense official clarified that the Pentagon's disposal of excess wall construction materials aligns with the FY 2024 National Defense Authorization Act. This act mandates a plan for the use, transfer, or donation of remaining materials acquired with Pentagon funds. The official confirmed that border states, including Texas and California, were prioritized and received a portion of the materials. The remaining portion was sold through a competitive process.
Texas has also offered 1,400 acres of land to the incoming Trump administration for use in its planned mass deportation operation, a move first reported by Fox News Digital. Former Acting ICE Director Thomas Homan, Trump's appointed border czar, has confirmed he is developing strategies for utilizing this land.
