Overview

• Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced in Santa Teresa, New Mexico, that the "entire" barrier will be painted black to absorb heat and deter climbers at the president’s request.
• The paint plan is paired with new cameras and sensors as part of a wider border upgrade funded by the One Big, Beautiful Bill, which allocates roughly $46.5 billion for wall construction.
• Officials have not released comprehensive pricing or a schedule for the painting effort, with DHS pointing to active procurement.
• U.S. Border Patrol Chief Mike Banks said the coating is intended to reduce rust, while Noem reported construction at about half a mile of barrier per day and noted work on water-borne infrastructure for river sections.
• Black coatings were tested during Trump’s first term, and later reporting documented peeling on some segments, raising durability and maintenance questions.