Trump to Appoint Texas Border Czar Mike Banks as U.S. Border Patrol Chief

Mike Banks, known for leading Texas' aggressive border measures, will replace career official Jason Owens in a shift toward political appointees.

Mike Banks, currently Texas' border czar, is set to become the 27th U.S. Border Patrol chief under President-elect Donald Trump's administration.
Banks will replace Jason Owens, a career official who plans to retire in April after 28 years of service in the agency.
This appointment marks a departure from the tradition of career officials leading the Border Patrol, signaling a move toward political appointees in border enforcement roles.
Banks has been a key figure in Texas' Operation Lone Star, which included deploying troops, installing barriers, and arresting migrants on trespassing charges.
The incoming Trump administration also plans to appoint Rodney Scott as CBP commissioner and Tom Homan as border czar, with plans for significant immigration enforcement measures.