Border fence update

The LA Times notes the complaints that the border fence is not going quickly enough—no surprise that Duncan Hunter is among the loudest. You may remember the Secure Fence Act, which called for the fencing. A grand total of 15 miles of fence has been built, and I’m including the photo from the story so everyone can decide for themselves whether it looks like a deterrent.

In general, though, I think it is fair to say the administration is dragging its heels, as there is considerable opposition to the fence.

But construction couldn't begin, officials said, until more effective fencing could be designed, contractors hired and environmental issues addressed. Outside Yuma, for instance, the fence is being built with small holes to allow movement by the horned lizard. The government also has met with opponents of the plan.

"The administration has made the decision to address local land concerns and environmental concerns to the extent that they can. . . . It slows the process down, but we're still committed to getting it done. Ultimately, the goal is to secure the border," said Brad Benson, a spokesman for Customs and Border Protection, the agency responsible for the fence.