Fact Check: "Fisher Sand Gravel Co. founded in 1952, now dominates border wall contracts."
What We Know
Fisher Sand and Gravel Company, founded in 1952 by Gene Fisher, is a construction firm based in Dickinson, North Dakota. The company has diversified operations, including concrete, asphalt, drilling, and mining, and is the parent company of several subsidiaries such as Arizona Drilling and Blasting and Fisher Ready Mix (Fisher Industries).
In recent years, Fisher Sand and Gravel has been awarded significant contracts related to the construction of the U.S.-Mexico border wall. Notably, in January 2020, the company was awarded a $400 million contract to build a section of the border wall, marking it as one of the key contractors for this project (CNN). The company has received notable political support, including lobbying efforts from Donald Trump and endorsements from figures like Jared Kushner and North Dakota Senator Kevin Cramer (Fisher Industries).
Analysis
The claim that Fisher Sand and Gravel now dominates border wall contracts is partially true. While the company has indeed secured substantial contracts for the border wall, it is essential to contextualize this within the broader landscape of border wall construction. The U.S. government has engaged multiple contractors for various sections of the wall, and while Fisher Sand and Gravel is a significant player, it is not the sole contractor.
Fisher's prominence in this sector can be attributed to its political connections and lobbying efforts, which have helped it secure contracts (Fisher Industries). However, the term "dominates" may imply a level of exclusivity or overwhelming market share that does not accurately reflect the competitive nature of federal contracting, where multiple companies are involved in border wall projects (CNN).
Moreover, Fisher Sand and Gravel has faced scrutiny over its environmental record and legal issues, including violations related to air quality and tax fraud (Fisher Industries). These factors may influence its reputation and operational capacity, further complicating the narrative of dominance.
Conclusion
The claim that "Fisher Sand Gravel Co. founded in 1952, now dominates border wall contracts" is partially true. While the company has secured significant contracts and has a notable presence in the border wall construction arena, it operates in a competitive market with other contractors also involved in similar projects. The political connections and lobbying efforts have certainly bolstered its position, but the term "dominates" may overstate its exclusivity in this sector.