Brandon Judd: From Border Patrol To Trump's Ambassador Pick?

Could a former border patrol agent and staunch advocate for stricter immigration policies become the next U.S. Ambassador to Chile? Brandon Judd, a name synonymous with border security and a trusted advisor to former President Donald Trump, is poised to potentially take on this diplomatic role.

The nomination, put forth by Donald Trump in 2024 and again in March 2025, has sparked considerable discussion, given Judds background and his outspoken views on immigration. A fluent Spanish speaker with extensive experience in various border patrol posts across the United States, Judd's career is deeply rooted in law enforcement and border security. He is widely recognized as an expert on illegal immigration, having testified before Congress and advised multiple administrations on the issue.

Judds journey began with 27 years of service within the U.S. Border Patrol, where he worked as a field agent and canine officer. His dedication and expertise led him to the presidency of the National Border Patrol Council (NBPC), a position he held from 2013 until his retirement on May 18, 2024. During his tenure, he represented over 17,000 border patrol agents and support staff, advocating for their interests and contributing to national discussions on immigration reform.

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Donald Trump has publicly lauded Judds contributions, stating that Judd helped him "develop and implement the most effective border security policies in our nation's history." This endorsement underscores the close working relationship between the two and highlights the potential shift in U.S.-Chile relations should Judds nomination be confirmed. Judd's support for Trump extends beyond policy, as he endorsed several conservative candidates in Arizona, further solidifying his position within the Republican Party.

However, Judd's nomination has not been without its challenges. He faced scrutiny over his support for a bipartisan border security bill, even being confronted by Fox News' host Harris Faulkner on the matter. This incident highlights the complexities of navigating the political landscape, especially when dealing with highly sensitive issues like border security.

Prior to his nomination, Judd served in various locations, including Arizona and California, gaining firsthand experience of the challenges faced by border patrol agents. His hands-on approach and understanding of the issues have made him a sought-after expert, advising administrations and testifying before Congress on numerous occasions. According to Spanish media outlets, Brandon Judd is a specialist in migratory issues, both on the ground and in management positions, and has advised Republican President Donald Trump since he first arrived at the White House in 2017.

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Beyond his professional life, Judd's background reveals a personal connection to Chile. As a young man in the late 1980s, he served as a missionary in Chile for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as Mormons. This experience likely provided him with valuable insights into Chilean culture and language, potentially making him a more effective ambassador. All young Mormons who finish high school must go on missions abroad to 'evangelize'.

Judds deep involvement with the NBPC has significantly shaped his career. He was unanimously elected as the national president in 2013 and has been a vocal advocate for border security measures. Under his leadership, the NBPC made its first presidential endorsement in October 2016, backing Republican nominee Donald Trump, who later became the 45th President of the United States. This endorsement marked a significant moment for the union and solidified its alignment with Trump's policies.

His nomination comes at a time of heightened scrutiny over immigration policies and border control. The Associated Press once highlighted Judd as a "winner" during a government shutdown, noting the rise in his profile as president of the NBPC. His frequent appearances on Fox News and other media outlets have further amplified his voice and influence on national conversations about immigration.

As president of the National Border Patrol Council, Brandon Judd often spoke out on the Biden administration's approach to immigration and border control. His criticisms were consistent with his support for stricter enforcement measures and his belief in the importance of securing the nation's borders. These views are likely to shape his approach to diplomacy should he be confirmed as ambassador to Chile.

Brandon Judd retired from the U.S. Border Patrol in May 2024 after a distinguished 27-year career. His departure marked the end of an era for the NBPC, with Paul Perez, the executive vice president of the union, stepping in as his replacement until the next election in 2026. Judd's retirement allows him to pursue future interests, including the potential ambassadorship to Chile.

In December, then President-elect Donald Trump announced his intention to nominate Judd as ambassador to Chile, which he reaffirmed on March 11, 2025. Trump stated through his social networks that Brandon Judd helped him develop the "most effective border security policies in the history of our nation."

His nomination has been formally received and is currently under consideration. If confirmed, Brandon Judd will assume the title of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Chile. This role would require him to represent the United States in all diplomatic matters with Chile, promoting U.S. interests and fostering strong bilateral relations.

According to the Wall Street Journal, Brandon Judd could have an "important" role to play in shaping immigration policy. His experience as a border patrol agent and union leader has given him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities associated with border security.

Throughout his career, Judd has been recognized for his dedication and expertise. He has served the NBPC since 2013 and brings with him more than 15 years of experience as a border patrol agent and a thorough understanding of the policies affecting border security. His dual roles have included protecting Americas borders while ensuring the fair treatment of border patrol agents.

Brandon Judd, born in Arizona, began his career as a field agent in 1997, according to his curriculum vitae published in the United States House of Representatives. He spent the last 27 years of his life serving the Border Patrol in states such as Arizona, California, Maine, and Montana.

His nomination to be the U.S. Ambassador to Chile represents a significant turning point in his career and a potential shift in U.S. foreign policy. As a staunch supporter of Trump and a critic of Biden's immigration policies, Judd is likely to bring a unique perspective to the role, advocating for stronger border security measures and a more assertive approach to international relations.

While the nomination remains under consideration, Brandon Judd's extensive experience, deep understanding of border security, and close ties to former President Trump make him a compelling candidate for the ambassadorship to Chile. His potential appointment could signal a new era in U.S.-Chile relations, marked by a focus on security and a commitment to protecting American interests.