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Border Patrol chief Greg Bovino sends surprising message in first statement since being removed from role after ICE shootings
Greg Bovino, the recently removed Border Patrol chief, made a striking statement in his first public appearance since his removal from leading immigration operations in Minneapolis.
The removal follows the tragic shooting deaths of two Americans, including ICU nurse Alex Pretti, during an immigration sweep on January 24. In his message, Bovino expressed strong support for his team and defied the growing criticism surrounding the incidents.
Bovino's departure from Minneapolis earlier this week marked a significant shift in the controversial immigration operations in the city.
After Pretti’s death, which resulted from a struggle with federal officers, Bovino was ordered to leave alongside several members of his team. Despite facing mounting backlash, Bovino remained resolute in his defense of his agents, delivering a message filled with gratitude and pride for their work.
Support for Border Patrol agents
In a video shared late Wednesday by right-wing influencer Nick Sortor, Bovino, standing in front of Mount Rushmore, declared, "I love you, I support you, and I salute you."
The 55-year-old continued to reassure his team, saying, “I’ve got your back, now and always,” signaling his unwavering commitment to his agents despite the fallout from the incident in Minneapolis.
Discrepancy in Pretti shooting claims
The situation surrounding Pretti's death has been controversial. Initially, Bovino claimed that Pretti had been carrying a weapon when he was shot, but footage later contradicted this assertion, revealing that Pretti had already been disarmed of his Sig Sauer P320 pistol when the gunfire occurred.
In the days following the death, Bovino described Pretti as a "domestic terrorist," suggesting that he was planning to massacre immigration officers. This description sparked further outrage, especially as Bovino also pointed fingers at political figures, such as Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, for fueling tensions.
Bovino’s parting words to agents
Despite the negative attention surrounding his leadership, Bovino stood firm in his support for his team in the video. He praised his agents for their dedication, saying, “I’m very proud of what you, the Mean Green Machine, are doing in Minneapolis right now, just like you’ve done it across the United States over these past tough nine months … It makes me very proud.”
These comments reflect his continued loyalty to the Border Patrol despite his removal and the national conversation about the agency’s role in immigration enforcement.