Border Patrol agents are voicing their intent to leave the agency if Vice President Kamala Harris wins the upcoming presidential election.

The agents' dissatisfaction and talk of a potential exodus stem from Harris' performance in her role as the "border czar" in the Biden administration, which they claim led to inefficiencies and hardships in their profession, as the Post Millennial reports.

The concerns are compounded by high turnover rates and an uptick in suicides among Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents.

Agent Retention Challenges at CBP

In recent months, a strong sentiment has emerged among Border Patrol staff about the potential impact of Harris's leadership on their duties and morale.

An agent shared that they are "absolutely sure" they would depart if Harris were to assume office, despite being far from the standard retirement age. Several others have echoed similar sentiments, suggesting a looming exodus if she wins.

The agency has faced significant personnel challenges between October 2020 and April 2024. A report revealed that Customs and Border Protection lost 4,281 agents during this period, nearly 25% of its workforce. These departures included resignations, early retirements, and compulsory retirements, highlighting systemic issues within the agency.

Impact of Harris's Border Czar Role

The apprehension about Harris's potential presidency is tightly linked to her past role within the current administration. Several agents have voiced that under Harris's oversight, policies made their tasks more challenging and seemingly ineffective.

One anonymous agent described their experience, stating that it felt like their capacity to perform their duties was being compromised. Another agent expressed frustration about agents witnessing "criminals come in and get released," describing the situation as demoralizing.

The prospect of dramatic changes under Harris’s leadership has prompted many experienced agents to consider pursuing different careers or retiring. A significant number of eligible agents might choose to retire early, according to predictions shared by some within the agency.

Psychological Strain and Rising Suicides

Contributing to the agency’s struggles is a noticeable rise in suicides among agents. In 2022, there were 15 reported suicides, emphasizing the mental health crises that some agents are facing. This trend has led the agency to hire a suicidologist in an effort to understand and address the underlying causes.

The heightened stress levels, compounded by an increasing number of illegal immigrant encounters -- reported to have surpassed 10 million during the current administration -- add a layer of complexity to the agents' concerns. The agents feel that these conditions amplify the difficulties they experience on the ground.

Future Implications for Border Security

Reflecting on future scenarios, agents speculate that a continuation under Harris's administration might prompt a departure of veteran staff who have dedicated decades to border security work. An agent remarked on the potential for an outflow of "20-year agents" who might opt for an early end to their careers.

The political dynamics resonate deeply within the ranks, as illustrated by an agent's comment that if former President Donald Trump were to win, it might sway some to remain in their positions.

This highlights the nuanced and varied responses among the workforce contingent on the election's outcome.

Conclusion Summarizing the Situation

In conclusion, Border Patrol agents are grappling with uncertainties tied to the upcoming presidential election, particularly concerning Vice President Kamala Harris's candidacy.

The dissatisfaction with her previous performance in relation to the border and its impact on their duties has led to significant discussions about potential departures from an already strained agency.

The situation is further complicated by ongoing mental health challenges within the ranks and ever-increasing operational demands.

As the election approaches, the agency faces a crucial juncture that could significantly influence its future workforce stability.