Federal judge halts sale of tons unused trump-era border wall pieces by biden administration

HOUSTON — A federal judge in Texas has ordered the Biden administration to immediately stop selling unused border wall materials, dealing a legal blow amid ongoing disputes over U.S.-Mexico border security policies.

U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton issued the order following a lawsuit led by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who argued that auctioning off the materials undermined congressional intent and border security. The materials, including steel bollards, were originally purchased during former President Donald Trump’s term but remained unused after construction halted under President Joe Biden in 2021.

The court’s decision blocks the sale of these materials for 30 days, ensuring they remain available for use as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to resume border wall construction after taking office in January. Paxton hailed the ruling as a “major victory,” asserting that it safeguards resources critical for enhancing border security.

The controversy escalated after reports surfaced that portions of the border wall were being sold at discounted rates in Arizona.

Trump criticized the auctions, calling them a “criminal act” and accusing the Biden administration of sabotaging his border policies.

The ruling also builds on a prior court order in May requiring the administration to allocate appropriated funds toward border wall construction. The Biden administration must now provide documentation proving compliance with the earlier injunction.

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