Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Border Czar Tom Homan held a press conference at the U.S.-Mexico border today, outlining the Trump administration’s comprehensive strategy to secure the southern border and combat illegal immigration.
The two leaders emphasized that border security is a top priority for national security and highlighted the unprecedented level of military and law enforcement cooperation under President Trump’s leadership.
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Secretary Hegseth began by praising the men and women working tirelessly to secure the border, including Border Patrol agents, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers, and military personnel. “For decades, the Defense Department has assisted with border security, but not at the level President Trump has charged us with now,” Hegseth said. “We believe, and he believes, that border security is national security.”
Hegseth, a veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, drew a stark contrast between past efforts to secure foreign borders and the current mission to protect the United States. “Guys and gals of my generation have spent decades in foreign countries guarding other people’s borders. It’s about time we secure our border,” he declared.
Homan, a seasoned immigration enforcement official who has served under six presidents, echoed Hegseth’s sentiments, calling the Trump administration’s approach a “game changer.” He highlighted the dramatic reduction in illegal immigration during President Trump’s first term, with crossings down by over 90% at their lowest point.
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“What I’m seeing here under President Trump’s leadership is unprecedented,” Homan said. “I’ve never seen this level of military engagement, law enforcement cooperation, and operational control of the border. We are going to succeed in securing every square inch of this border.”
Hegseth and Homan outlined the administration’s plan to achieve 100% operational control of the border. This includes a surge of manpower, with thousands of active-duty and National Guard troops deployed to the region. Advanced surveillance systems, including intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) assets, are being utilized to monitor and deter illegal crossings.
Additionally, the administration has secured cooperation from Mexico, with 10,000 Mexican troops patrolling their side of the border. “This is a joint effort,” Hegseth said. “We are working closely with Mexico to ensure security on both sides of the border.”
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Both leaders emphasized that securing the border is not just about stopping illegal immigration but also about protecting Americans from the devastating impacts of drug trafficking, human smuggling, and potential terrorist threats. “This is about national security,” Homan said. “It’s about stopping fentanyl from killing Americans, preventing women and children from being trafficked, and keeping terrorists out of our country.”
Hegseth issued a warning to cartels, stating, “All options are on the table. We will secure our border and protect our men and women guarding it.”
When asked about the detention of migrants, Hegseth confirmed that the Defense Department is prepared to provide any necessary assets, including the use of military bases and facilities like Guantanamo Bay, to support the expulsion and detention of individuals in the country illegally. “Guantanamo Bay is the perfect place to hold violent criminals and those awaiting deportation,” Hegseth said, referencing its use during the Clinton administration to house migrants.
Homan added that the administration is working to expand detention capacity and ensure that violent criminals are swiftly removed from the country.
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Hegseth and Homan concluded by reaffirming their commitment to the mission and expressing gratitude for the dedication of the troops and law enforcement officers on the front lines. “We will not fail,” Hegseth said. “Shoulder to shoulder, we will defend this line and protect our families, communities, and nation.”
Homan added, “This is about protecting the American people. That’s why we’re here, and that’s why we will secure this border.”
As the Trump administration continues its efforts to secure the southern border, the collaboration between the Defense Department, DHS, and international partners like Mexico marks a significant step forward in addressing the ongoing crisis.
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