The Daily A Conversation With a Border Patrol Agent
Sep 24, 2019
Art Del Cueto, a Border Patrol agent in Arizona and vice president of the National Border Patrol Council, shares his candid perspectives on his challenging role. He discusses the evolving dynamics under Trump, including the low morale among agents and the internal struggles they face due to public scrutiny. Del Cueto sheds light on the ethical dilemmas of family separation policies, resentment toward detention conditions, and the stigma surrounding their profession. His reflections balance heritage, identity, and the emotional toll of serving on the border.
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Early Exposure to Border Realities
- Art Del Cueto grew up in Douglas, Arizona, a small border town heavily influenced by cartel activity and drug trafficking.
- He witnessed the harsh realities of border life, including seeing heroin for the first time in sixth grade.
Patriotic Upbringing
- Del Cueto's father, a physician, instilled in him a deep respect for the United States and its laws.
- His father emphasized allegiance to their adopted country, highlighting the opportunities it provided.
Balancing Heritage and Nationality
- Del Cueto considers being Mexican part of his heritage but identifies primarily as an American.
- He embraces his Hispanic heritage while emphasizing his loyalty to the United States.