Trump border wall/ Biden wall sales/ Trump border policy/ SoftBank U.S. investment/ Trump transition news/ PALM BEACH/ Fla./ Newslooks/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ President-elect Donald Trump has called on the Biden administration to stop selling unused sections of the border wall, purchased but left uninstalled from his previous term. Speaking at Mar-a-Lago, Trump criticized the practice as a “criminal act” and threatened legal action with support from Texas officials. Trump also highlighted his transition’s progress, alongside an announcement of a $100 billion U.S. investment by SoftBank Group CEO Masayoshi Son.
Trump Challenges Biden Over Border Wall: Quick Looks
- Unused Wall Materials: Trump criticized the Biden administration for selling unused border wall sections required to be disposed of by Congress.
- Legal Threat: Trump said he’s working with Texas officials, including Attorney General Ken Paxton, to seek a restraining order.
- Biden’s Mandate: Congress authorized the sale or donation of wall materials for refurbishing existing barriers only, not new installations.
- Workforce Policy: Trump pledged to dismiss federal employees unwilling to return to office jobs under his administration.
- Investment Deal: Japanese company SoftBank announced plans to invest $100 billion in U.S. projects over four years.
Trump Urges Biden to Halt Sales of Unused Border Wall Materials
Deep Look
Trump Pushes Back on Border Wall Sales
President-elect Donald Trump is demanding the Biden administration cease the sale of unused border wall materials purchased during his first term. The move comes after Congress, through the National Defense Authorization Act, directed the administration to dispose of these materials.
The legislation permits sales or donations to southern border states, provided the materials are used to refurbish existing barriers rather than construct new sections. Trump criticized the policy during a Mar-a-Lago appearance, calling it “almost a criminal act” and vowing to pursue legal measures.
“We’re going to spend hundreds of millions of dollars more on building the same wall we already have,” Trump said.
Potential Legal Battle
Trump claimed he has consulted Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and other state officials about seeking a restraining order to halt the sales. His comments reflect his administration’s broader commitment to re-prioritizing border security, a cornerstone of his 2024 campaign.
Workforce Return Mandate
During the same address, Trump took aim at the Biden administration’s policies allowing federal workers to continue working remotely. He vowed to require all federal employees to return to the office or face dismissal once he takes office.
“If they’re not coming back to work, they’re not working for the United States government,” Trump stated.
SoftBank’s $100 Billion Investment
Trump shared the stage with SoftBank Group CEO Masayoshi Son, who announced a $100 billion investment in U.S. projects over the next four years. This marks another significant deal for Trump, who has used his transition period to spotlight economic initiatives and policy wins.
During his speech, Trump lauded the announcement as evidence of his ability to spur major investments in America.
“Deals announced with much fanfare have sometimes failed to deliver on promised investments,” Trump acknowledged, “but this represents a win for the American people.”
Trump also reiterated his pledge to expedite approvals for projects exceeding $1 billion, including environmental permits, emphasizing his administration’s focus on reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
Looking Ahead
As Trump transitions into his second term, his renewed focus on border security, government efficiency, and economic growth remains at the forefront of his agenda.
You must Register or Login to post a comment.