Trump Budget's $1.6 Billion Would Build 74 Miles of Border Wall He Promised

WASHINGTON - The $1.6 billion set aside for a border wall in President Trump's 2018 budget is enough for 60 miles of new barrier in Texas, plus 14 miles to replace fencing around San Diego.At that rate, it would cost nearly $50 billion to build new barrier along the full length of the Southwest border.Trump has promised a "big, beautiful wall" along the border. Supporters and detractors alike have taken that to mean he wants a physical barrier along the entire 2,000 mile border, though Trump has conceded that might not be necessary.About 654 miles of the border is currently fenced. The total would rise to 714 if Congress grants Trump's wish list for the 2018 budget.   Continue reading...