National Police Association Podcast Pt. 2 with Gregory K. Bovino, Commander-at-Large of the United States Border Patrol (Ret.)

In Part 2 of Sgt. Betsy Brantner Smith’s conversation with former Border Patrol Chief Greg Bovino, the discussion dives deep into the national debate surrounding illegal immigration, sanctuary city policies, immigration enforcement, and the growing hostility faced by Border Patrol and ICE agents in American cities.Bovino challenges the political phrase “worst of the worst,” arguing that limiting immigration enforcement only to violent offenders effectively creates a pathway to mass amnesty. He explains why immigration enforcement, in his view, must address the broader scale of illegal entry and overstays rather than waiting for crimes to occur before action is taken.The conversation examines how sanctuary city policies impact federal immigration enforcement and local law enforcement cooperation. Bovino describes how sanctuary jurisdictions create what he calls a “draw” for illegal immigration while simultaneously making it more difficult for law enforcement agencies to work together to remove criminal offenders and maintain public safety.Smith and Bovino also discuss the economic and social impact of illegal immigration on American communities, including: Competition for jobs and wages  Strains on schools and hospitals  Emergency room overcrowding  Resource burdens on taxpayers  The effect on working-class Americans A major focus of the episode is the distinction between criminal due process and administrative immigration enforcement under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). Bovino explains how immigration law allows federal authorities to process removals administratively without using the traditional criminal court system.The interview also addresses the unprecedented hostility directed toward Border Patrol and ICE personnel. Bovino recounts violent encounters involving vehicles, projectiles, and organized activist resistance during enforcement operations in major cities, while discussing the long-term effects these operations have had on agents.The episode closes with Bovino encouraging young Americans and current police officers to consider careers in the Border Patrol and public service, calling the profession deeply rewarding and emphasizing the importance of protecting American communities.Key Topics Discussed “Worst of the worst” immigration enforcement debate  Sanctuary cities and federal enforcement conflicts  Economic impact of illegal immigration  Immigration law and administrative due process  Violence against Border Patrol and ICE agents  Law enforcement morale and officer safety  Mass deportation strategies  Border security policy and national sovereignty  Recruiting the next generation of Border Patrol agents   Twitter  https://x.com/GregoryKBovino