U.S. Border Patrol Chief Michael Banks has resigned just after 16 months on the job as the patrol’s 27th chief, amid a wave of high-profile departures from President Trump’s administration.
His departure marks a major shake-up within Trump’s immigration team, as former top Border Patrol official Greg Bovino retired and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) secretary was fired by Trump.
The reason for his departure remains unclear; however, he now wanted to return home to Texas and focus on his family.
In an interview with Fox News, the 52-year-old former Navy veteran said, “It’s just time. I feel like I’ve put the ship back on course, from the least secure chaotic and disastrous border to the most secure border this country has ever seen.”
Announcing his resignation in a letter to his team, Banks praised the Border Patrol’s accomplishments over the past year and a half, saying, “It’s nothing short of incredible.”
Looking back at Banks’ career:
He has a career in the federal service that spans more than 37 years (444 months). Banks served in the United States Navy for 10 years before joining the Border Patrol.
He also served as special advisor for border affairs to Texas Governor Greg Abbot and assumed the role as the 27th chief after President Trump was sworn in for his second term in January 2025.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Rodney Scott thanked Banks for his service.
Since Trump took office as president, his administration has taken strict measures to curb illegal immigration to the country, in some cases even legally registered migrants have been targeted.
According to CBP, illegal crossings have decreased by more than 90 percent over the past year and a half.
