The Biden administration has announced that it will cease selling off materials designated for the construction of a border wall in anticipation of the incoming Trump administration's tougher stance on illegal immigration.
Following a court order, the Biden administration has agreed to a 30-day halt on disposing of any further border wall materials, allowing President-elect Trump to utilize these resources, as confirmed by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.
The auctioning of border wall parts has been ongoing since at least 2023, with items being listed for sale on various platforms after the abrupt halt of most border wall construction in 2021.
President-elect Trump has urged the Biden administration to cease these auctions, emphasizing the importance of border security.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton expressed satisfaction in blocking the disposal of additional border wall materials, citing a victory in compelling the Biden administration to continue wall construction.
Any attempt by the Biden administration to dispose of border wall materials in violation of the court order could result in legal consequences, including being held in contempt of court.
Texas has pledged to support the incoming administration in building the wall along the southern border once Trump assumes office.
The Biden administration halted border wall construction in January 2021 after approximately 450 miles had been completed during the previous administration.
While proponents of the wall argue its necessity in curbing illegal immigration, critics, particularly some Democrats, view the project as xenophobic and ineffective.
The sale of border wall parts began in 2023, with surplus materials being made available for purchase on online auction platforms.
Reports indicate that auctions have been occurring regularly, drawing attention when unused wall parts were observed being transported in Arizona despite their potential use in the upcoming Trump administration.
Former President Trump has criticized the Biden administration's decision to sell off these materials at discounted rates, warning that repurchasing them in the future could cost taxpayers significantly more.
Trump has called on President Biden to halt the auctions, suggesting that legal action may be taken to prevent further sales.
