The U.S. Senate has confirmed Rodney Scott as the new head of Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Department of Homeland Security’s largest enforcement agency with roughly 65,000 employees. Scott previously served as Border Patrol Chief.
CBP is divided into two main units: the Border Patrol, which monitors borders between ports of entry, and the Office of Field Operations (OFO), which oversees security at ports of entry. Scott’s confirmation came in a 51-46 party-line vote, with all Republicans supporting and all Democrats opposing.
Scott was removed as Border Patrol Chief during the Biden administration after resisting politically motivated changes, including a directive to replace the term “illegal alien” with “undocumented immigrant.” Scott argued that such mandates could undermine public trust in the agency and stressed that USBP must remain apolitical.
He retired as Border Patrol Chief in August 2021 but continued advocating for stricter border security, supporting Trump-era policies such as the Remain in Mexico program, Safe Third Country agreements, and border wall construction. He later joined the Texas Public Policy Foundation as a Distinguished Senior Fellow for Border Security.
Scott has frequently appeared before Congress and in the media, promoting tougher immigration enforcement and policies aimed at reducing illegal crossings.
Following his Senate confirmation, Scott expressed gratitude to President Trump and Secretary Noem, emphasizing his commitment to lead CBP with integrity and a mission to defend U.S. sovereignty and enforce the law. Trump praised Scott’s nearly 30-year career and his record in reducing illegal immigration.
Scott’s appointment comes as the administration seeks to reverse policies from the Biden era. The Supreme Court recently allowed the Trump administration to resume deportations to third countries, marking an early victory for the administration’s immigration agenda.
