Fact Check: "Military personnel at the border now exceed 10,000, a historic high."
What We Know
The claim that military personnel at the U.S.-Mexico border now exceed 10,000 is supported by multiple reports. As of early April 2025, the Pentagon confirmed that the number of troops deployed to the border had reached this figure, marking a significant increase in military presence compared to previous years (source-5). This deployment includes active-duty soldiers and Marines as well as National Guard forces, which together contribute to the total exceeding 10,000 personnel (source-7).
In January 2025, it was reported that the military was preparing to send an additional 1,500 troops to the border, which would bring the total number to approximately 10,000, following the deployment of 2,200 troops already stationed there (source-3). The deployment is part of the Trump administration's ongoing efforts to bolster border security, which has included various military operations since 2018 (source-1).
Analysis
The evidence supporting the claim is credible and comes from reliable sources, including official statements from the Pentagon and reports from reputable news organizations. The confirmation of troop numbers from the Pentagon is particularly significant, as it reflects the official stance of the U.S. military regarding its operations at the border.
However, it is important to note that the context of these deployments has been contentious. Critics, including U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren and Mazie Hirono, have expressed concerns about the implications of military involvement in immigration enforcement, arguing that it diverts resources from essential military functions and undermines national security (source-1). The deployment of military personnel for border security has been characterized as a political maneuver rather than a necessary military operation, raising questions about the long-term impact on military readiness and morale (source-1).
Despite these criticisms, the assertion that military personnel at the border have exceeded 10,000 is factually accurate and substantiated by multiple sources.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that military personnel at the border now exceed 10,000 is accurate based on credible reports from the Pentagon and other reliable news sources. The deployment represents a significant military presence at the border, marking a historic high in troop numbers for this purpose.
Sources
- Warren, Hirono Press Defense Secretary Hegseth on Cost ... Link
- Troops arrive at the border to help with enforcement ... Link
- US military to send additional 1500 troops to border Link
- Military and Veteran Benefits, News, Veteran Jobs | Military.com Link
- Number of troops ordered to U.S.-Mexico border hits 10000 Link
- homepage | Military.com Link
- More than 1100 troops approved to deploy to US-Mexico ... Link
- Universal Studios Orlando Military Discounts Link
