Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth visited Fort Bliss, Texas, on Monday to survey the southern border and meet with the troops as the federal government under President Donald Trump moves to secure the Mexican frontier.

"Wheels Down with [Border Czar Tom Homan] visiting [Fort Bliss]! Looking forward to meeting our great warriors and seeing the hard work they are doing securing our southern border. We will continue to deliver on this vital mission," he posted.

Hegseth was narrowly confirmed as secretary of defense, with Vice President JD Vance casting the deciding vote. His confirmation was seen as a proxy battle between the Trump-MAGA movement and the old guard GOP. Ultimately, GOP Sens. Lisa Murkowski, Alaska; Susan Collins, Maine; and Mitch McConnell, Ky.; joined Democrats in opposing him.

Fort Bliss is an Army facility near El Paso, Texas, which is a key crossing point between the U.S. and Mexico.