On Wednesday, Congressional candidate Gerrick Wilkins announced his “America First Border Security Plan.” Wilkins said that his plan focuses on robust border security, adherence to the rule of law, and the safety of American citizens to solve the pressing crisis at our southern border.
“As the crisis at our border escalates into a dire national security risk, it’s imperative for Congress to act decisively,” Wilkins said. “Our ‘America First Border Security Plan’ is a call to action, not just a policy proposal.”
The key pillars of the plan are:
· Constructing a formidable physical barrier along the entire southern border. Wilkins said this initiative is aimed at deterring illegal entry and symbolizes national resolve.
· Significant funding increases for ICE and CBP by reallocating funds from the IRS expansion and Ukraine’s security.
· Mobilizing the National Guard to bolster border security. Wilkins seeks the support of the US military to assist Mexico in eradicating drug cartels, highlighting the shared challenges in border security.
· Enhanced collaboration with border states to strengthen security programs.
· Deploying advanced technology such as drones, satellites, and surveillance tools for border monitoring and security.
· Funding to streamline legal processes for asylum, deportation, and enforcement actions by empowering local law enforcement.
· Reinstating President Donald Trump’s “Stay in Mexico” policy.
· Ending Biden’s catch-and-release program
· Stricter regulations and severe penalties for human traffickers
· Expanding background checks for all individuals entering the country.
· Imposing substantial penalties for visa overstays
· Holding foreign governments accountable for facilitating or ignoring illegal immigration into the United States.
· Companies will be mandated to verify the immigration status of their employees.
· Immigration reforms shifting from family-based to merit-based immigration that aligns with national needs.
· Reforming the refugee system to focus on low-risk individuals.
· Increased costs of visas, background checks, and the naturalization process, as well as for international money transfers. These adjustments are designed to generate additional revenue to support the funding of enhanced border security measures.
2.76 million illegal immigrants crossed the southern border in fiscal year 2022 alone – that is equal to 55.1% of the population of the state of Alabama. That was followed by a record-breaking 3.2 million in fiscal year 2023 – equivalent to 64.5% of the population of the state of Alabama.
The open border is also contributing to the deadly fentanyl epidemic, which is killing 107,000 Americans a year. 69.5% of the deaths are males. Drug overdose is now the leading cause of death for adults aged 18-45.
Wilkins is involved in his local church, serving as a deacon and lay leader, engaging in mission work locally and globally, and working with Gideons International. Wilkins says that he is a Christian who loves the Lord. Gerrick also serves on several local advisory boards, including one for Mission Increase and Samford University’s Brock School of Business. Wilkins and his wife of 24 years, Carol, have donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to churches, various charities, mission organizations, and educational programs. They have one daughter. They have lived in Alabama since 2006 and in Vestavia Hills since 2014.
Wilkins has a bachelor’s degree from Pensacola Christian College. He also has a degree in theology from Liberty University and a master’s in business administration from Samford University. Wilkins has worked for over 24 years in the automotive industry. His experience includes managing large-scale dealerships and helping other community-based dealers grow. While managing car dealerships in Alabama, he has learned firsthand the constant heartaches small businesses must contend with from overregulation and excessive taxes.
Wilkins is running against incumbent Gary Palmer (R-AL06) and insurance agent Ken McFeeters in the Republican primary on March 5. The eventual Republican nominee will face Democrat Elizabeth Anderson in the November 5 general election.
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