The sprint to find a new Border Patrol leader Rosario “Pete” Vasquez, an agent with 26 years of experience, has been chosen as the new national chief of Border Patrol, concluding a two-week search. This selection comes after the abrupt retirement of Michael Banks, whose tenure was marked by allegations and union influence. The administration prioritized integrity, work ethic, and experience in selecting Vasquez, moving away from previous selection criteria.

• Rosario “Pete” Vasquez has been selected as the new national chief of Border Patrol.
• Vasquez is a 26-year veteran of the Border Patrol with experience in various regions and headquarters.
• The previous chief, Michael Banks, retired amid allegations following a Washington Examiner investigation.
• The search prioritized integrity, work ethic, focus on the workforce, and experience over union favor.
• The Deputy Chief, Neil Slosar, also retired, deviating from standard succession procedures.
• The union’s influence in the selection process has been a point of contention.