Senator Lankford Questions DHS Secretary on Border Security and Coast Guard Needs

Border Security Improvements

• 📈 Border crossings have seen a dramatic decrease, with March 2024 showing 11,000 crossings compared to over 200,000 in previous years.
• 💡 This reduction has provided a much-needed breather for the nation and allowed border personnel to catch up.
• 🤝 Morale among Border Patrol and CBP in San Diego is dramatically different and improved compared to the past.

Coast Guard's Critical Role and Needs

• 🌊 The Coast Guard is facing increased pressure at the border, intercepting individuals using jet skis and Panga boats.
• ⚠️ They are not only rescuing lives from capsizing boats but also removing individuals, highlighting a dual mission.
• 🛠️ To enhance their effectiveness, the Coast Guard requires additional assets, including advanced cameras, radar systems, and more personnel.
• 🛰️ There's a need for counter-UAS technology to detect and assess potential threats from drones, as well as improved satellite technology and updated software systems for better communication with law enforcement.
• 📻 A specific example highlighted the need for modern radio equipment, as some personnel are carrying multiple heavy, outdated radios to cover necessary channels.

Addressing Past Neglect and Future Investments

• 🚢 The Coast Guard has been neglected for years, leading to delayed cutter procurements and a disadvantage in regions like the Arctic and Indo-Pacific compared to Russia and China.
• 🚀 Investing in new airframes, cutters, and technology is crucial to counter cartel operations using faster boats and to protect national security.

Information Requests and FEMA Grants

• 🔍 Senator Lankford's team has pending requests for data from the previous administration, particularly regarding Pearl Plus programs, to understand outcomes and whereabouts of individuals.
• 🏗️ There is also a need for information on the future of FEMA grants for building resilient infrastructure, especially after recent storms in the Midwest, including Oklahoma and Kentucky.