The Controversial Border Wall: Facts, Figures, and Political Implications
The border wall between the United States and Mexico has been a contentious issue for years, with various political figures advocating for its construction or opposing it. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the progress made on the border wall, the amount of money spent on it, and the current state of the project post-election. Additionally, it will delve into the political implications and the current stance of both the Trump and Biden administrations.
Progress of the Border Wall
According to recent reports, less than 4 miles of the border wall remain standing after Hurricane Harvey hit the area. This significant setback highlights the challenges faced in constructing and maintaining the wall. President Donald Trump initially claimed that a whopping 80 billion dollars from the military budget was allocated to the wall. However, the reality on the ground seems far different.
Financial and Political Context
Following the election of Joe Biden, there has been a shift in the political landscape surrounding the border wall. Biden and his advisors have given instructions to re-grade the border fence. It is important to note that one of the primary reasons for this shift is the need for more funds to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and in Gaza. This decision comes amid claims that the U.S. arms industry needs continuous warfare to generate profits.
Failed Promises and Inefficiencies
Some critics argue that the border wall construction has been plagued with inefficiencies and failed promises. For instance, it has been claimed that President Trump diverted 9 billion dollars from the military budget to complete 10 miles of the wall in three years. However, the quality of the construction was reportedly poor, with sections already falling down.
The Controversial Nature of the Project
The controversial nature of the border wall extends beyond its construction and social implications. Several elements surrounding the project, including funding and political maneuvering, have been called into question. For example, it has been alleged that much of the funding could have been used to build numerous walls or cover other critical needs. Moreover, it is alleged that the steel used for the wall was sold at a significant loss, and that the gates have been left open, allowing illegal entry.
Political Implications
Both the Trump and Biden administrations have left a significant mark on the border wall project. President Trump made grandiose claims that Mexico would pay for it, but these have not materialized. On the other hand, the Biden administration has stopped work on the project and redirected funds to other priorities, contributing to the wall's overall incompletion. The situation has been further complicated by internal political maneuvers, with the House blocking the wall's progress.
Conclusion
The border wall project remains a highly contested and complex issue. The financial and political implications continue to evolve, and the current state of the wall reflects ongoing challenges and controversies. Whether the border wall is ever completed and its impact on security and immigration policies remains to be seen. As the political climate shifts, so too does the approach to addressing the border issue.