Border security takes center stage as Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announces the construction of seven new miles of border wall in Arizona, marking a significant turning point after years of halted construction. The Trump administration’s renewed focus on border security demonstrates their commitment to the “Make America Safe Again” agenda despite facing opposition from Democrats who previously blocked wall construction.
Trump Administration Resumes Border Wall Construction
Secretary Noem made the announcement while standing at the current end point of the existing border wall in Arizona. The Department of Homeland Security has awarded a $70 million contract to Granite Construction Co. for this critical infrastructure project in the Rio Grande Valley Sector.
This new construction directly reverses the policies of the Biden administration, which halted all border wall construction on day one of taking office. The resumption of border wall construction represents a fulfillment of President Trump’s campaign promises to secure America’s southern border and address the illegal immigration crisis.
Kristi Noem just announced 7 more miles of border wall construction. 🇺🇸
While others talk, actual progress is being made. Every mile built = fewer criminals crossing. This is how you take border security seriously. 👇pic.twitter.com/bHRgajStNb
— Desiree (@DesireeAmerica4) March 16, 2025
Noem Emphasizes Security and Border Integrity
Secretary Noem visited the border to personally announce the new construction phase in a video shared widely on social media. Standing at the border, she clearly identified where the current wall ends and where the new seven-mile extension will begin.
The $70 million investment demonstrates the administration’s serious financial commitment to border security during a time of continued migration pressure. This project aims to address vulnerable sections of the border where illegal crossings have continued despite previous enforcement efforts.
Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced we're building SEVEN more miles of border wall!
The building starts today!
Thank you, @Sec_Noem and President @realDonaldTrump, for making America and Americans safe again!#Trump #DeportThemALL… pic.twitter.com/rsDmJ5wPsJ
— Shawn Hawkins (@ArmedPatriot45) March 16, 2025
Reversing Biden-Era Border Policies
The construction announcement comes as a direct counteraction to the previous administration’s border approach. Under Biden, construction was halted despite Congress having already appropriated funds specifically designated for border barriers.
“Everybody up here in Arizona and right at this spot, you can see where the border wall ends. As of today, we’re starting seven new miles of construction; we’re going to continue to make America safe again.”
The Rio Grande Valley Sector has historically been one of the busiest corridors for illegal border crossings. Border Patrol agents and local officials have consistently requested additional physical barriers to help manage the flow of migration and improve the safety of border communities.
Only in late 2023 did the Biden administration reluctantly allow some previously funded border barrier construction to proceed in South Texas. The Trump administration’s aggressive approach represents a complete policy shift focused on physical deterrence alongside other enforcement measures.
Secretary Noem’s background as the former governor of South Dakota brings her experience with National Guard deployments to the border to her new role. Her hands-on approach signals the administration’s prioritization of border security as a cornerstone policy for the second Trump term.
The announcement has been met with strong support from conservatives and border security advocates who have criticized the previous administration’s handling of migration. Critics of the wall construction continue to question its effectiveness and environmental impact while supporters point to the deterrent effect of physical barriers when combined with technology and personnel.
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DHS’ Kristi Noem says Trump admin will resume construction of 7 miles of southern border wall