During a meeting earlier this year, former President Donald Trump allegedly proposed drastic measures to deter migrants at the U.S.-Mexico border. According to a report by The National Herald, Trump suggested that shooting migrants in the legs could “slow them down” once they crossed into the United States. This remark came after his aides informed him that using lethal force against migrants, even in response to rock-throwing, was illegal.
Extreme Solutions and Frustration
In the book Border Conflicts: Inside Trump’s Immigration Agenda, which draws on interviews with numerous White House officials, it was noted that Trump expressed frustration over immigration issues, leading him to suggest various extreme solutions. Not only did he entertain the notion of violence against migrants, but he also considered outlandish ideas like reinforcing the border wall with a moat filled with snakes or alligators, even requesting cost estimates for this bizarre proposal.
His administration reportedly cautioned that such plans could trap American tourists in Mexico and jeopardize the lives of children attending school near the border, potentially leading to economic turmoil in both nations. In a related incident back in May, Trump and a rally crowd shared a moment of laughter when someone suggested that the government should shoot immigrants.
Funding Controversies
Trump’s promise to have Mexico fund his border wall has faced scrutiny, particularly as funding has been diverted from critical military projects. Recently, Defense Secretary Mark Esper announced the redirection of $3.6 billion meant for military initiatives, including funding for schools for military families, to support the border wall. Projects affected include a $13 million child development center at Joint Base Andrews and $95 million for an elementary school in Japan.
Frustration in the White House
During the contentious March meeting, a frustrated Trump reportedly exclaimed, “You are making me look like a fool!” while surrounded by senior advisors like Stephen Miller and then-Homeland Security Secretary Kirsten Meyer. Many of those present attempted to reason with him, but he dismissed their concerns, insisting, “I want it done by noon tomorrow.”
Since that meeting, Trump has continued to encounter legal challenges and public backlash regarding his immigration policies. Nevertheless, those who have sought to offer more rational solutions have largely been removed from their positions.
Further Reading
For more information on at-home insemination, you can check out our post on the impregnator at home insemination kit. If you’re interested in understanding the health implications of vaccines, consider looking at what the Hib vaccine protects against. Additionally, for in-depth insights on pregnancy and fertility, Science Daily offers excellent resources.
Conclusion
In summary, the alarming suggestions made by Trump during a meeting about border security highlight the extremes to which he was willing to go in addressing immigration issues. His proposals, marked by a lack of legality and reason, reflect ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policy.