President-elect Trump plans to nominate ex-president of the border patrol union, Brandon Judd, as his ambassador to Chile.
“I have personally known and worked with Brandon over the past nine years. Brandon helped me develop and implement the most effective Border Security policies in our Nation’s History,” Trump said Thursday night on Truth Social. “I have also watched as Brandon tirelessly and honorably represented the Border Patrol Agents who elected him as their voice in all matters, especially in their efforts to secure our Great Country’s Borders, and keep all Americans safe.”
Judd served nearly three decades in the Border Patrol, holding various roles and serving in states like Arizona, California, Maine and Montana.
He was the president of the National Border Patrol Council, which represents around 18,000 Border Patrol agents and support personnel. He officially retired from the post on May 18.
Judd has criticized President Biden’s immigration policies, particularly with the increased number of illegal immigrants crossing the southern border, during his appearances on TV.
“Biden is only worried about his political future. The safety and security of his fellow Americans is secondary to that goal,” Judd wrote in a Fox News opinion essay that was published in late February. “Tragically, we’ve witnessed the catastrophic outcome of his self-centered policy decisions for over three years now.”
The current U.S. ambassador to Chile is Bernadette M. Meehan.
Judd will need to be confirmed by the Senate. Republicans will hold a majority early next year.
“I am confident Brandon will represent the United States in the same manner as he represented all rank-and-file Border Patrol Agents as the President of the National Border Patrol Council. Brandon will do our Country proud,” Trump wrote.
