Fact Check: "Only 21 miles of border wall built during Trump's entire first term."
What We Know
The claim that only 21 miles of border wall were built during Donald Trump's first term is misleading. According to the White House, as of January 2021, President Trump stated that approximately 450 miles of border wall had been completed. This figure includes new barriers and replacement of existing barriers. The construction of the wall was a significant part of Trump's immigration policy, and he frequently touted the progress made during his presidency.
Additionally, reports from the Texas Facilities Commission indicate ongoing efforts to construct border walls in Texas, with various milestones being reported over the years. As of April 2025, they reported 61.8 miles of border wall completed under state initiatives, which is separate from federal efforts but indicates continued construction efforts in the region.
Analysis
The assertion that only 21 miles of wall were built appears to stem from a misunderstanding or misrepresentation of the total miles constructed. The BBC reported that while the administration faced challenges, including funding and legal hurdles, the total length of wall constructed was significantly higher than 21 miles.
The sources cited, particularly the official statements from the White House, are credible as they come from the administration itself, which had direct oversight of the construction projects. However, it is important to note that the definition of "border wall" can vary, as some may refer only to new construction rather than replacement of existing barriers.
The claim's reliability is further undermined by the lack of supporting evidence from reputable sources that corroborate the 21-mile figure. Instead, multiple credible sources consistently report higher figures, indicating that the claim is not supported by the available data.
Conclusion
Verdict: False
The claim that only 21 miles of border wall were built during Trump's first term is inaccurate. Official reports indicate that approximately 450 miles of border wall were completed, which includes both new construction and replacement of existing barriers. The discrepancy likely arises from a misunderstanding or misrepresentation of the total miles constructed.
