National Guard troops deployed to Calexico border introduced
In April, California Governor Jerry Brown struck a compromise with President Donald Trump to allow 400 National Guard troops to be deployed to the California border with Mexico. Today, the first 51 of those troops arrived at the Calexico west point of entry.
El Centro Sector Border Patrol officials introduced the 51 National Guardsmen to their temporary home, however, officials said their mission won’t take them to the border.
“But its never going to be a frontline border assignment or task. Their job is going to be behind the scenes providing us the critical support that today border patrol agents do,” said Gloria Chavez, chief patrol agent.
The National Guardsmen will be unarmed as they help agents who serve 71 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border just outside Calexico.
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“I think it’s a slippery slope. I think it opens up a Pandora’s box. I think it irritates and intimidates and scares many people and angers many people,” said Bill Hodge, Calexico City Councilman.
Hodge said the National Guard is not necessary on the border and sees their deployment as a political action.
“It’s more of a political ploy, I believe, on Trump’s part, to trump up his idea, excuse the pun, of the wall or the fence,” Hodge said.
Hodge plans to talk to city council about officially condemning the National Guard’s presence.
“Yes, I do think it’s necessary that officially and publicly that the people know where their city officials stand,” Hodge added.
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Noticias en español: Telemundo 15
