Shiawassee Times

State Rep. Brian BeGole is advocating for the deployment of the Michigan National Guard to the southern border to address ongoing issues and protect residents. BeGole emphasized the need for action, stating, “The data very clearly shows the dangers that relaxed border policies at the federal level present to our state and our local communities.”

In support of this initiative, BeGole backed a House resolution urging the governor to send National Guard members to the border, highlighting the influx of drugs and individuals with criminal backgrounds entering communities. He stressed the urgency of the situation, noting that delays in addressing the crisis put families at risk.

BeGole's efforts come in response to concerning statistics at the U.S.-Mexico border, with over 250,000 encounters with migrants recorded in December alone. Additionally, Border Patrol encountered 172 individuals on the terrorist watchlist in the 2023 fiscal year, highlighting the security challenges posed by current border conditions.

Moreover, BeGole introduced a resolution calling for the designation of drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, citing the threats they pose to individuals, families, and national interests. This designation would serve to economically isolate these violent groups and prompt global action against them.

With a background of over 30 years in law enforcement, including as Shiawassee County Sheriff, BeGole brings a wealth of experience to his advocacy for enhanced border security measures.