Retired Border Patrol Chief Bovino Faces a Chilly Reception from North Carolina Progressives

Border Patrol Veteran Faces Hostility in Boone, NC

Gregory Bovino, a former chief of the Border Patrol and ex-CBP commander, has experienced a cold reception from some liberals in Boone, North Carolina. While he mentions that many residents in the Appalachian area have been welcoming, his past isn’t as easily accepted by left-leaning individuals in the town he once lived in.

Bovino shared a video with Breitbart Texas, recorded at a county-run entertainment facility, where he encountered a woman who was visibly unhappy to see him. In the video, she confronts him, saying, “I hope you resign from your current position and start paying more attention to how you treat immigrants.”

To that, Bovino replied, “Are you talking about illegal aliens? Or are you talking about immigrants? I’ve always treated immigration as a big, big difference.”

A woman with pinkish-purple hair, holding a cup marked with a Che Guevara sticker, accused him of being responsible for violent actions against some individuals. She blamed his “turn-and-burn” immigration tactics for these incidents.

She went on to tell him, “You are not welcome in our city.”

In response, Bovino asserted, “Just like you, I’ll come here anytime and do whatever I want.”

Ending their heated exchange, the woman remarked, “I’m glad you’re happy with your position here and protecting pedophiles.”

Bovino, maintaining his composure, replied, “I love protecting America. Thank you, ma’am, you have nice hair.”

After this incident, the local Watauga chapter of the National Indivisible organization posted a picture on Facebook showing Bovino working out at a local facility, captioning it, “Found at Watauga Conservation Center.”

Many comments followed, expressing discontent with his presence at the facility. One individual mentioned that they chose to glare at him to let him know his actions were unwelcome. Another added, “SOBs should never have a moment’s comfort in public.”

The administrators of the Indivisible Watauga NC Facebook page didn’t discourage the negative comments, with one response highlighting concerns over Bovino’s possible influence and actions. They noted that he could still report people he dislikes or collaborate with former colleagues in a potentially harmful manner, stressing the importance of public awareness about his whereabouts.

Despite the mixed reactions, Bovino maintained that most residents in Boone have treated him positively. However, he criticized far-left individuals who seem to have a disdain for law enforcement, asserting that similar groups have previously obstructed and assaulted officers in places like Minnesota. He emphasized their potential for violence when they don’t get their way.

Bovino also mentioned the necessity for federal law enforcement officials at ICE and CBP to wear masks during immigration enforcement, stressing that such individuals might aggressively confront anyone in public, regardless of the situation.

The local Indivisible chapter was formed in 2024, maintaining an active public Facebook page linked to a regional hub. Some of Bovino’s public activity in Boone may conflict with the group’s code of conduct, established in 2025, which promotes safety and respect within the community.