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President Donald Trump announced former Border Patrol Union President Brandon Judd as his pick for the U.S. Ambassador to Chile.
Trump shared the news in a post to his Truth Social account on Thursday, signaling strong border security leadership in another key role.
“I am pleased to announce that I will be nominating Brandon Judd to serve as the United States 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 wrote.
“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,” he continued.
“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 concluded.
Judd served as the Nation Border Patrol Council president until he retired in May. The group represents about 18,000 Border Patrol agents and personnel.
Trump’s announcement also included two additional related leadership choices. He announced Rodney Scott as Commissioner of United States Customs and Border Protection.
“Rodney served as the 24th Chief of the U.S. Border Patrol, where he implemented Remain-in-Mexico, Title 42, Safe Third Agreements, and achieved record low levels of illegal immigration,” Trump wrote.
The president-elect also announced Caleb Vitello as Acting Director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Vitello has over 23 years of service to ICE.
“Caleb’s exceptional leadership, extensive experience, and commitment to ICE’s mission make him an excellent choice to implement my efforts to enhance the safety and security of American communities who have been victimized by illegal alien crime,” Trump wrote.
The new team of border leaders will certainly play key roles in Trump’s plans for mass deportations and strong border security following his return to the White House on Jan. 20, 2025.
