Rep. Eric Swalwell posted a Christmas image showing ICE agents and a helicopter at the Bethlehem nativity, prompting sharp criticism online. U.S. Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino publicly rebuked the congressman and engaged with other users. The exchange reopened debate over whether Gospel accounts of the Holy Family’s travels relate to modern immigration policy, with commentators sharply divided over historical and scriptural interpretations.
Border Patrol Commander Slams Swalwell’s Nativity Post, Sparking Immigration-and-Bible Debate
Swalwell slammed by Border Patrol commander over imagery showing ICE raiding Jesus Christ’s manger
Rep. Eric Swalwell shared a Christmas-themed image depicting ICE agents and a helicopter at the nativity scene in Bethlehem, captioning the post, "May this be the last Christmas we live this nightmare." The image prompted a wave of criticism and an active exchange on social media.
U.S. Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino — who has been involved in several high-profile Department of Homeland Security immigration operations — publicly rebuked Swalwell on X, writing, "Yes, the last Christmas where un-American pedantic dolts choose illegal aliens over US Citizens." Bovino continued to engage with other users throughout the thread.
Other commenters weighed in, with some blaming recent years' border policies for what they called lax enforcement. When one user referenced allegations about Swalwell's past contact with a Chinese operative known as "Fang Fang" (an allegation Swalwell denies), Bovino replied sarcastically to the reference.
USBP Cmdr. Greg Bovino, left; Rep. Eric Swalwell, right.
Debate Over Biblical Context
The exchange reignited discussion about whether the Gospel accounts of Joseph and Mary's movements have any bearing on contemporary immigration debates. Commenters cited Luke, which describes Caesar Augustus' census that required Joseph — a descendant of King David — to travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem, and Matthew, which describes an angel warning Joseph to flee with his family to Egypt to escape King Herod.
Some conservative commentators argued that the Holy Family's movements were lawful under Roman regulations or represented internal relocation within Roman-controlled territories, and therefore are not analogous to modern illegal immigration. Others rejected that interpretation, noting important differences between ancient imperial governance and modern nation-states and immigration law.
Political Reaction And Cultural Mockery
Conservative activist Robby Starbuck publicly accused Swalwell of misrepresenting the scriptural story, arguing that Mary and Joseph complied with Roman rules. Other critics used pop-culture images — including a still from the film Home Alone — to mock the congressman's depiction.
Fox News Digital contacted Rep. Swalwell for comment but did not receive a response by press time. Observers noted that debates linking scripture and public policy often reflect broader political divides rather than settled historical conclusions.
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