Summary
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) criticized Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass for her comments about the increase in Latino recruitment among U.S. Border Patrol agents. The criticism came after Bass expressed concern over these recruitment trends during a CNN interview. DHS argued that the comment was detached from reality and accused Bass of seeking media attention through race-related remarks.
Key Facts
- Mayor Karen Bass commented on the rise in Latino recruitment in the U.S. Border Patrol during a CNN interview.
- DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin criticized Bass, saying her comments were out of touch and "race-baiting."
- CNN reported a rise in Latino recruits joining the Border Patrol training academy, with many coming from border communities.
- About half of the U.S. Border Patrol agents along the southwest border identify as Hispanic or Latino.
- Mayor Bass expressed concern about the financial motivation behind recruitment and its impact on the agents' roles.
- The Trump administration increased recruitment for ICE officers and Border Patrol agents as part of its immigration policy.
- Over 48% of U.S. Border Patrol agents were Hispanic males, according to a 2017 DHS workforce report.
- California, being a border state, is significantly affected by heightened immigration enforcement activities.
