Former Border Patrol Commander Voices Bitterness and Regrets in Retirement Interview
Gregory Bovino, the self-described former "commander-at-large" of the U.S. Border Patrol, has spoken out in a revealing interview with The New York Times ahead of his retirement from federal service, expressing deep disappointment over his career's end and the direction of immigration policy.
Removal and Return to Previous Role
In January, Bovino was stripped of his position following a controversial incident where federal agents killed American citizens Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. This demotion saw him revert to his prior role as a sector chief in California, a move that has left him embittered as he prepares to leave government work entirely.
Criticism of Trump's Softer Approach
During the interview, Bovino did not hold back his dissatisfaction with the "softer touch" advocated by former President Donald Trump since his departure. He lamented what he perceives as a shift away from aggressive enforcement, stating, "I wish I’d caught even more illegal aliens."
"We went as hard as we could, but there’s always a creative and innovative solution to catching even more," he added, emphasizing his belief that more could have been done under his leadership.
Desire for Total Border Domination
Bovino made it clear that he harbors no regrets about the tactics he employed, instead suggesting they were insufficient. "We wanted total border domination," he declared. "I want you to dominate that border. I’m not going to 'control' it. We’re going to dominate the hell out of that damn place."
Notably, he expressed no remorse for baselessly claiming that Pretti had intended to "massacre law enforcement," a statement that drew criticism during his tenure.
Allegations and Internal Conflicts
The former commander also took aim at Trump's border czar, Tom Homan, referencing allegations of a $50,000 bribe. "You’re not going to see me talking to anyone for a bag of money," Bovino asserted, distancing himself from the controversy.
He admitted to having "spirited" conversations with Stephen Miller, the White House adviser who played a key role in shaping Trump's immigration agenda. Without naming specific individuals, Bovino criticized his superiors as "status quo" bureaucrats who rejected his "turn and burn" tactics—rapid-fire immigration arrests he championed.
Retirement Amid Blowback Over Tactics
Bovino is retiring this week following significant backlash over his enforcement methods in cities like Minneapolis and Los Angeles. According to a Department of Homeland Security official who spoke to The Times, some agents filed formal complaints, accusing Bovino of directing racial profiling and the indiscriminate use of munitions against nonviolent targets.
In response, Bovino claimed he was unaware of any such formal complaints, maintaining his stance despite the allegations. His retirement marks the end of a contentious chapter in Border Patrol history, highlighting ongoing debates over immigration enforcement strategies in the United States.
