The Border Wall as Political Spectacle
THE ACTORS: Who is involved in this story? Governor Kristi Noem (R-SD) is a prominent figure in the ongoing national discussion regarding border security, often aligning with a faction that advocates for increased physical barriers. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is the federal agency with primary responsibility for border enforcement and immigration matters. Donald Trump, while not
directly cited in the content snippet provided, is historically significant given his administration's emphasis on border wall construction and his ongoing influence on Republican policy positions. THE FUNDING: Where does their money come from? Political figures like Governor Noem benefit from campaign contributions often contingent on their unwavering stance on key issues. For instance, in the
2020 election cycle, the construction and expansion of border wall infrastructure became a significant fundraising platform for Republican candidates, with donations frequently channeled through Political Action Committees (PACs) and individual donors who prioritize such policies (OpenSecrets, 2020). The proposed federal funding for border walls has historically run into billions of dollars. For
example, during the Trump administration, over $15 billion was allocated for wall construction and related projects, with significant funds diverted from military construction budgets (Government Accountability Office, 2020). THE INCENTIVES: What do they gain from this narrative? For Governor Noem, public statements and visits to the border reinforce her political brand as a strong conservative