CBP Chief Greg Bovino to Retire at Month's End

Bovino faced criticism for heavy-handed immigration tactics during Trump administration

Mar. 17, 2026 at 3:53am

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Customs and Border Patrol Chief Greg Bovino, who oversaw controversial immigration operations across the country during the Trump administration, plans to retire at the end of March. Bovino faced widespread criticism and judicial admonishment for tactics used when apprehending alleged illegal immigrants, including heavy-handed approaches and indiscriminate arrests.

Why it matters

Bovino's retirement comes as the Biden administration seeks to reform immigration enforcement practices and rebuild trust with immigrant communities. His departure also coincides with the exit of DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, signaling a potential shift in immigration policy under the new administration.

The details

Over the past year, Bovino was told to stop using chemical agents, gassing crowds of protesters, and to switch to a more targeted approach instead of randomly questioning people based on appearance. After two U.S. citizens in Minneapolis died at the hands of DHS officials, Bovino was removed from his role as commander-at-large and returned to his position as chief patrol agent in El Centro, California.

  • Bovino plans to retire on March 31, 2026.
  • Bovino's retirement will coincide with the departure of DHS Secretary Kristi Noem.

The players

Greg Bovino

The outgoing Customs and Border Patrol Chief who oversaw controversial immigration operations during the Trump administration.

Kristi Noem

The current DHS Secretary who is also departing her position.

Markwayne Mullin

The Oklahoma Senator who will replace Kristi Noem as the new DHS Secretary.

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What they’re saying

“We must reform immigration enforcement practices and rebuild trust with immigrant communities.”

— Unnamed Source, Biden Administration Official

What’s next

The Biden administration is expected to take a different approach to immigration enforcement compared to the tactics used under Bovino's leadership.

The takeaway

Bovino's retirement signals a potential shift in immigration policy under the new administration, as they seek to move away from the heavy-handed tactics employed during the Trump era.