US Border Patrol Chief Mike Banks Resigns Effective Immediately

U.S. Border Patrol Chief Mike Banks has announced his resignation, effective immediately.

Banks, who has served 37 years, stated that he felt it was time to step down after helping restore security at the southern border.

“It’s just time,” Banks said. “I feel like I got the ship back on course. From the least secure, disastrous, chaotic border to the most secure border this country has ever seen. Time to pass the reins. 37 years. It’s time to enjoy the family and life.”

The announcement comes after Banks was appointed to the position by then-President-elect Donald Trump on January 16, 2025, and sworn in on January 22, 2025. The role did not require Senate confirmation.

The departure has been described as abrupt. Banks had been leading the agency through efforts to strengthen border enforcement following what he characterized as a previously chaotic period.

No further details on immediate leadership succession or specific reasons beyond Banks’ personal statement were available as the news broke.