Former President Donald Trump also mentioned an endorsement from the National Border Patrol Council during an Oct. 13 campaign rally in Prescott Valley, Arizona. Trump highlighted his plans to address the shortage of U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents by proposing a 10% pay raise and a $10,000 retention and signing bonus for all ages of agents. This announcement was made alongside a delegation of Border Patrol agents. The Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General found in a 2023 audit that 88% of Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) respondents reported inadequate staffing due to surging illegal immigration. Inspector General Joseph Cuffari testified in a June 2023 Congressional hearing about the frustrations faced by Border Patrol and ICE agents. In January 2024, Customs and Border Patrol introduced new financial incentives to boost recruitment, including a $20,000 recruitment incentive and additional bonuses for accepting remote locations. President Joe Biden also signed legislation in late 2023 to increase overtime pay for border agents. Before proposing the pay raise at the rally, Trump emphasized the support from the National Border Patrol Council and was joined by several Arizona Republicans known for their tough stance on illegal immigration. The event showcased figures like Rep. Paul Gosar (R-Ariz.) and Rep. Eli Crane (R-Ariz.). Crane co-sponsored the Subterranean Border Defense Act, aimed at thwarting cross-border tunneling efforts. Trump’s rally also featured appearances by Stephen Miller and Republican gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake. The event took place just days after the start of early voting in Arizona, a key battleground state. Trump encouraged attendees to return their ballots immediately, while focusing on the case for a second Trump presidency. The rally also featured personal stories from attendees, including David Arbuckle and his dog “Mr. Trump,” who was named for his bright orange coat. Air Force veteran with experience in the New Mexico State Police expresses concern that the recent influx of unvetted border crossings could lead to terrorism within the United States.
At a rally for presidential candidate Donald Trump in Prescott Valley, Arizona, 100-year-old Vee Duurloo shared her hopes for “a few more years” of a Trump presidency. Duurloo felt compelled to attend the event to show her support for her chosen leader.
Duurloo credits her longevity to “good living and God” when asked about her secrets to staying healthy and alive.
*Image Source: John Fredricks/The Epoch Times* Please rephrase this sentence.
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