Oh! I'm shocked that the "big beautiful wall" that Mexico was going to pay for is really just the same old border fence we've already got. Aren't you?
Under the evolving plan, the Trump administration would rely on existing legislation authorizing fencing and other technology along the southern border. Congress would be asked to ensure that enough money is appropriated to take additional new steps — but would not pass a stand-alone bill authorizing a big new wall. CNN separately reported that Trump would ask Congress to appropriate US tax payer money to pay for the "wall".
The potential approach was confirmed by two congressional officials and a senior transition official with knowledge of the discussions; all spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the matter publicly. The officials emphasized that no final decisions had been made.
The approach could come as a surprise to some but could avoid a legislative fight Trump might lose if he tried to get Congress to pass a stand-alone bill authorizing the kind of border wall he promised during the campaign.
Well, lookie there. First he fills the swamp instead of draining it, and now his wall is just a fence we've already authorized and are paying for.
Pay no attention to the man behind the curtain.
