Border agents can't detain migrants under current law: CBP union VP

Border agents can’t detain migrants under law: CBP union VP

Senate unveiled $118 billion package with new border laws
House GOP leaders criticized package, said it's 'riddled with loopholes'
CBP union VP: They need to do something to stop the flow of migrants

Updated: Feb 6, 2024 / 06:07 PM CST

(NewsNation) — The National Border Patrol Council (NBPC), representing border agents, has thrown its support behind the bipartisan border deal despite opposition from former President Donald Trump.

Art Del Cueto, vice president of NBPC, emphasized the urgency of addressing the ongoing border crisis during a recent interview on “Elizabeth Vargas Reports.”

“The current administration has done absolutely nothing to help the problem. In fact, they’ve caused the problem,” Del Cueto stated. “But right now, something like this bill, what’s been presented, I think it’s something that, right now, it helps to stop the gap.”

The NBPC released a statement saying, “While not perfect, the Border Act of 2024 is a step in the right direction and is far better than the current status quo. This is why the National Border Patrol Council endorses this bill and hopes for its quick passage.”

“At the same time, it opens up the door for the next administration to be able to know to take the reins and handle it more,” Del Cueto added.

The proposed legislation, if passed, would significantly increase resources at the border, including hiring additional Border Patrol agents, asylum officers, and immigration judges. It aims to address the issue of catch and release, a policy that allows individuals to be released pending asylum hearings, which often leads to significant delays.

Trump has been actively lobbying against the bill, urging Republican members of Congress to vote against it. Del Cueto acknowledged the former president’s opposition but emphasized the need for immediate action.

“Because he realizes that he could do a much better job, and no one’s gonna disagree,” Del Cueto said in response to Trump’s stance.

Despite Trump’s influence, Del Cueto expressed support for the bill, highlighting the urgency of addressing the current crisis at the border.

“It needs to be brought up if there’s amendments to be made, they should be made. But right now, they need to do something to stop the flow of what’s happening. Catch and release is the big deal,” Del Cueto emphasized.

The border bill faces an uphill battle in the Senate, with more than 20 senators publicly declaring their disapproval. A test vote is scheduled for Wednesday.

NewsNation’s Jorge Ventura contributed to this report.