Baird reflects on recent visit to border, SpaceX

With a visit to SpaceX already on the docket, Baird decided to take advantage of the close proximity to the border. 

With a desire to learn and see operations up close, Greencastle Republican Representative Beau Baird recently took a trip to Texas, where he visited both the Southern border and SpaceX.

"I spent summers in Texas working on horse ranches, where I saw firsthand both legal and illegal immigration into the state from the southern border," Baird told The Putnam County Post.

With a visit to SpaceX already on the docket, Baird decided to take advantage of the close proximity to the border. 

"I felt it was important to take the time to engage with Customs and Border Protection. Border security is a critical issue at both the state and federal levels, and rather than relying on political narratives or media reports, I wanted to hear directly from those on the ground. Seeing the situation firsthand helps cut through the noise and get to the truth of what's actually happening," Baird admitted. 

Baird said one of the biggest changes he noticed compared to prior visits was the additional support Border Patrol has received, pointing out there were about 250 border patrol officers assigned to the location, along with about 150 military personnel. 

"This additional manpower is allowing Border Patrol to focus more on critical administrative tasks like continued education, skill development, and asset management, rather than being stretched too thin on the front lines. I also had the opportunity to see the new anti-climb fence that Texas has helped install, which is another layer in the state's efforts to secure the border," Baird said. 

Baird said the impact of illegal immigration can be seen and felt in Indiana, singling out the trafficking of both drugs and humans. 

"Border issues, particularly, the trafficking of illicit substances like fentanyl, have significantly impacted Indiana. Mexican drug trafficking organizations dominate the wholesale supply of illicit opioids, including fentanyl, in the state. These organizations transport drugs directly to distribution hubs within Indiana, contributing to the widespread availability of these dangerous substances," Baird said. 

Baird said the consequences are "evident" in the state's overdose statistics. 

"In 2023, Indiana experienced a notable reduction in fatal drug overdoses, with the rate dropping from 41 per 100,000 people in 2022 to 34.2 in 2023. Despite this improvement, the opioid crisis remains a severe issue, with ongoing fatalities and the emergence of the fourth wave of the overdose epidemic involving the co-use of heroin, fentanyl and stimulants. These developments underscore the profound effect that border security and drug trafficking have on Indiana, particularly concerning the fentanyl crisis," Baird noted.

In addition, he said human trafficking is also a huge problem, saying there are indentured servants to the drug cartel living among residents. 

"Human trafficking and sex trafficking are also big business for these cartels happening right here in Indiana. MS13 is one of the most dangerous Mexican gangs, and they're right here in our community for sure," Baird said. 

While Baird said there are problems, he acknowledged local and state police are doing a phenomenal job of keeping the general public safe.

"It is definitely something people should be aware of, and I understand why it may seem alarming. I have had briefings from the FBI on these issues, which is how I know that human trafficking, sex trafficking and even violent gangs like MS13 are present in our communities. However, while awareness is important, I wouldn't want people to live in fear. We are incredibly fortunate to have exceptional law enforcement officers here in Indiana who work tirelessly to keep us safe. Their dedication and expertise make a real difference every day, and we are truly blessed to have them on the front lines protecting our communities," Baird said. 

As for visiting SpaceX, the veteran lawmaker said seeing the scale of the operation was "incredible."

"Seeing firsthand how they are pushing the boundaries of innovation and space exploration was truly impressive. Their work is not only advancing technology, but also bringing significant economic growth to the region," he said. 

Baird said one interesting fact about SpaceX is the economic growth it has brought to its region. 

"Two things come to mind. First, a lot of the welding used on their spacecraft is the same type used in oil refineries. Because of this, SpaceX has been able to hire many local welders who had become unemployed due to downturns in the oil industry. Also, Starbase has grown so much that it has essentially become its own city and is about to hold its first mayoral election. What makes this especially interesting is that only SpaceX staff and employees live there, making it a truly unique community," Baird said.