State leaders respond to President Trump's signing of order to send National Guards to the border

Arizona state leaders are embracing President Donald Trump's announcement that he wants to deploy the military along the border with Mexico.

On Wednesday, Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen said President Trump and border-state governors are working to "immediately" deploy the National Guard to the U.S.-Mexico border to fight illegal immigration, with some troops potentially arriving later Wednesday.

Gov. Doug Ducey says in a Wednesday Tweet that the state "welcomes the deployment of National Guard to the border." He says Washington has ignored the issue and help is needed. Ducey says that for Arizona "it's all about public safety."

Meanwhile, Ducey spokesman Daniel Scarpinato said Wednesday the Governor welcomes the deployment of the Guard to the border. He said details about any possible use of the state Guard in the mission would be released as they are available.

Former Governor Jan Brewer also voiced her support.

"We have got to get our borders secured, so I am pleased," said Brewer. "They can be the eyes and ears of the Border Patrol. They go up on cherry picker-type equipment an they can see, notify Borde Patrol where they're coming across."

In 2010, about 500 National Guardsmember were stationed along the border. They did not have arresting powers, and were instructed to use their weapons only in self defense.

Not everyone, however, is onboard with the idea. Rep. Ruben Gallego (D) compared the cost of security to permanent housing for the homeless, saying:

The Associated Press (AP) contributed to this report.