Trump Selects Rodney Scott to Lead Customs and Border Protection

The former Border Patrol chief and staunch supporter of Trump-era policies faces Senate confirmation as key immigration roles are filled.

Rodney Scott, a former U.S. Border Patrol chief with decades of experience, has been nominated by President-elect Donald Trump to lead U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
Scott is known for implementing stringent Trump-era immigration policies, including the Remain in Mexico program and Title 42 expulsions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Caleb Vitello, a career official with over 23 years at Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), has been named acting director of the agency to oversee deportation operations.
Critics, including Arizona Congressman Raúl Grijalva, have raised concerns over Scott's history with controversial policies and alleged ties to a Facebook group with offensive content.
The appointments signal Trump's renewed focus on aggressive immigration enforcement, with Arizona and other border states likely to see significant impacts.