Trump’s Tariffs To Secure The Border?

President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada have the potential to significantly enhance border security, according to Thaddeus Cleveland, the Sheriff of Terrell County, Texas, and a retired Border Patrol agent. Speaking on Newsmax’s Wake Up America Weekend, Cleveland emphasized that Trump’s approach to border security is direct and effective, noting that the president has followed through on similar measures in the past. “If he says he’s going to do it, he will,” Cleveland asserted.

During his first term, Trump implemented tariffs that directly influenced Mexico’s actions at the U.S.-Mexico border. For the first time, Mexico not only increased its enforcement along its own border with Guatemala but also took steps to help manage the flow of migrants moving north into the U.S. Cleveland noted that these measures were a critical step in securing both the U.S. border and Mexico’s southern frontier. “Trump is a man of action,” Cleveland said, “and these tariffs will have a positive impact on border security.”

Cleveland also predicted that Trump’s focus will extend to the U.S.-Canada border in his second term, a region that has increasingly seen issues with illegal immigration and smuggling. “Canada is a close ally, but we cannot rely on them to solve our border problems,” Cleveland explained. He pointed out that while the U.S. shares a strong relationship with Canada’s law enforcement—particularly the Royal Canadian Mounted Police—Mexico presents a different challenge. “Mexico is plagued by corruption and controlled by cartels, making it a much harder partner in securing the border,” he noted.

One of the most pressing issues Trump aims to address is the ongoing fentanyl crisis, which has claimed thousands of American lives. Cleveland, who has spoken at various anti-fentanyl events, noted the tragic impact of the drug, especially on young people. “It’s devastating to see so many young lives destroyed by fentanyl,” he said, adding that a national awareness campaign spearheaded by Trump, potentially involving celebrities like athletes and musicians, could help stem the tide of this deadly epidemic.

As President Trump prepares for his second term, Cleveland believes his leadership on border security and the fight against fentanyl will continue to resonate with Americans who demand stronger, safer borders and a commitment to protecting future generations.