Trump nominates former border chief Rodney Scott as commissioner of CBP

President-elect Trump nominated former border chief Rodney Scott as the commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). 

“Rodney served nearly three decades in the Border Patrol, building vast experience and knowledge in Law Enforcement and Border Security,” Trump said in a Thursday night announcement on Truth Social. “Rodney served as the 24th Chief of the U.S. Border Patrol, where he implemented Remain-in-Mexico, Title 42, Safe Third Agreements, and achieved record low levels of illegal immigration.” 

Scott began his service in Border Patrol in the 1990s. He rose through the ranks, serving as the head of the Border Patrol during both Trump’s and President Biden’s administrations. He was appointed by Trump in February 2020. He oversaw over 21,000 personnel and backed some of Trump’s border policies, like expanding the wall with neighboring Mexico. 

He announced in late June 2021 that he would resign from the post, a decision that was widely anticipated. 

“Just a simple needs of the service directed reassignment so the new administration can place the person they want in the position,” Scott said. 

U.S. Border Patrol's current chief is Jason Owens. 

Scott retired in mid-August 2021, accumulating nearly three decades of experience in federal law enforcement. 

“After retiring, Rodney has continued to educate politicians and the public about the importance of meaningful Border Security,” Trump said in the post.