Biden’s Border Wall Fire Sale: Almost Criminal, Says Trump
BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front):
Former President Donald Trump has sharply criticized the Biden administration for selling unused border wall materials, branding the act as “almost criminal.” The auctions, which have been ongoing since 2021, have raised concerns about financial waste, national security, and political motives. Trump vows action, including potential legal steps, to halt these sales and reclaim the materials.
The Situation
Videos surfaced last week showing unused border wall materials being sold at steep discounts. These materials include steel bollards and concrete sections that were part of Trump’s border security plan. Reports suggest the auctions aim to dispose of materials along Arizona’s border stations before Trump’s inauguration. Starting bids for these materials have been as low as $5, with some ultimately selling for $8,000–$10,000.
Trump’s Take
From Mar-a-Lago, Trump lambasted the sales, stating, “What they’re doing is really an act, it’s almost a criminal act.” He emphasized the financial burden on taxpayers:
- Costly Re-purchases: “We’ll need to buy back these materials at hundreds of times the current selling price.”
- Impact on Security: “This wall was designed to keep our borders secure. Selling it off is reckless.”
Trump underscored the wall’s design—a mix of steel, reinforced concrete, and anti-climbing plates—as a cutting-edge security measure. “We spent billions perfecting this, and now they’re throwing it away for pennies,” he said.
Biden Administration’s Defense
Officials from the Department of Defense (DOD) claim the materials were sold earlier this year and are now out of federal jurisdiction. However, critics like Jonathan Lines, a Yuma County supervisor, argue the consistent sales signal broader policy indifference. “It’s sensationalism to say this is just now ramping up,” Lines remarked, defending the administration’s actions as routine.
Trump’s Call to Action
Trump revealed plans to work with Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and others to halt the auctions. “We’re exploring restraining orders and other legal remedies,” he declared. Trump framed the issue as beyond partisan politics, appealing to “common sense” to stop what he sees as wasteful governance.
Bigger Implications
The controversy raises pressing questions:
- Taxpayer Waste: Why sell valuable materials at a loss only to potentially rebuy them later?
- Border Security: Can the U.S. afford to undermine its border protection system amid rising migrant crossings?
- Political Messaging: Is this move part of a broader strategy to undo Trump-era policies?
Trump argues the sales are symptomatic of a broader problem. “This isn’t about Democrat or Republican,” he said. “It’s about the future of our nation.”
What’s Next?
Trump’s second term looms, and his team is preparing to revisit border security as a top priority. His administration is committed to finishing the wall and avoiding unnecessary expenditures. “This is not just about walls; it’s about the soul of our country,” he concluded.