Fact Check: "$3 billion spent on Texas border wall, yet only 8 miles built."
What We Know
The claim that Texas has spent $3 billion on its border wall while only completing 8 miles is supported by multiple sources. According to a report from The Texas Tribune, only 8% of the 805 miles identified for construction have been completed, which translates to approximately 65 miles built at a cost exceeding $3 billion. This figure aligns with other reports, including one from Yahoo News, which confirms that the state has spent around $3 billion for 65 miles of wall. Furthermore, MSNBC corroborates this information, stating that only 8% of the planned construction is finished.
Analysis
The evidence provided by these sources is consistent and reliable. The Texas Tribune is known for its investigative journalism and has a strong reputation for covering state issues, including the border wall project. Their report details the funding and construction status of the wall, highlighting that the project has faced significant challenges, including landowner resistance and a lack of continued funding from the state legislature.
The claim that only 8 miles (or 65 miles, as clarified in some reports) have been completed for $3 billion is significant because it raises questions about the effectiveness and efficiency of the project. Critics, including some Republican lawmakers, have expressed concerns about whether the funding is yielding tangible results, suggesting that the expenditure may be more about political optics than actual border security (Texas Tribune).
While the claim has been reported by various outlets, including The Independent, it is essential to note that the figures can sometimes be misinterpreted. The distinction between "8 miles" and "65 miles" can lead to confusion, but the consensus remains that the project is far from completion relative to its initial goals.
Conclusion
The claim that "$3 billion spent on Texas border wall, yet only 8 miles built" is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources confirms that Texas has indeed spent over $3 billion on its border wall project, with only approximately 65 miles completed, which constitutes about 8% of the planned construction. The project has faced significant obstacles, including funding cuts and land acquisition issues, which have hindered its progress.
Sources
- Texas quietly defunds state border wall program
- Texas spent $3 billion to build 65 miles of border wall. The state has now stopped the failed project.
- Texas spent $3 billion to build 65 miles of border wall. The state has now stopped the failed project.
- Just 8% of the 805 miles the state identified for construction is complete, which has cost taxpayers more than $3 billion to date.
