In a striking display of defiance, Border Patrol commander Gregory Bovino has broken his silence following his abrupt demotion from a leadership role in Minnesota. The senior official issued a video statement recorded at the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial, directly addressing the federal immigration officers under his former command.
A Message of Support from a National Monument
Standing before the monumental presidential carvings, Bovino delivered an emotional address to his team, whom he affectionately referred to as the "Mean Green Machine." He expressed unwavering pride in their ongoing efforts in Minneapolis, despite his recent removal from the position.
"Team, behind me are a few individuals there, that's the original turn and burn, the folks that help make America," Bovino stated in the video. "I'm very proud of what you, the Mean Green Machine, are doing in Minneapolis right now."
Unwavering Loyalty to Federal Agents
The demoted commander went further, offering a powerful message of continued support to the officers. "I also want you to know I've got your back now and always," he continued. "I love you, I support you and I salute you."
This public declaration of affection and solidarity comes during a particularly turbulent period for immigration enforcement operations in the Minneapolis region.
Leadership Shakeup Following Minneapolis Shooting
Bovino's demotion and transfer back to his previous post in El Centro, California, were ordered directly by President Donald Trump. This significant leadership change followed the tragic shooting death of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis over the weekend, which has intensified scrutiny of border enforcement activities in the area.
To fill the vacated position, President Trump dispatched border czar Tom Homan to Minnesota. Homan has since embarked on damage control efforts, acknowledging the challenges faced by the agency while attempting to stabilise operations.
Presidential Commentary on the Decision
When questioned about the personnel change, President Trump offered a characteristically candid assessment of Bovino's capabilities and temperament. "Bovino is pretty good, but he's a pretty out-there kind of guy," the President remarked. "Maybe it wasn't good here."
This comment suggests that Bovino's unconventional approach may have contributed to the decision to reassign him, particularly in the sensitive aftermath of a fatal incident.
Damage Control and Agency Imperfection
Tom Homan, now overseeing Minneapolis operations, has adopted a more measured public stance regarding the agency's performance. "No agency is perfect," Homan stated during his initial assessment in Minnesota, striking a conciliatory tone while acknowledging room for improvement in enforcement protocols and community relations.
This leadership transition occurs against a backdrop of heightened tension surrounding immigration policy implementation and enforcement tactics in urban centres across the United States.
The dramatic visual of a demoted federal commander delivering a defiant message from one of America's most recognisable national monuments underscores the deep personal and professional stakes involved in border enforcement leadership. Bovino's very public display of loyalty to his former team suggests ongoing divisions within immigration enforcement ranks following the Minneapolis shooting incident and subsequent administrative changes.
