What agency is tasked with safeguarding and protecting America's borders?

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is the primary agency tasked with safeguarding and protecting America's borders. This organization plays a crucial role in enforcing immigration and customs laws, which includes managing the flow of people and goods entering the United States. CBP's responsibilities encompass border security, trade enforcement, and the prevention of illegal activities at the borders.

While the U.S. Border Patrol operates under CBP and focuses specifically on patrolling the borders between ports of entry, the broader scope of CBP encompasses all aspects of border protection, including inspection of cargo and travelers. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is primarily involved in enforcing immigration laws within the interior of the country and addressing criminal activities related to customs and immigration violations, but it does not primarily focus on border protection. The U.S. Coast Guard, while essential for maritime security, operates under different mandates related to national defense, maritime safety, and environmental protection and does not focus solely on border protection as CBP does.