Donald Trump is gearing up to fulfill his pledge to deport millions of undocumented immigrants, signaling a major shift in immigration policy.
In a Truth Social post, Trump confirmed a claim made by Judicial Watch founder Tom Fitton, who stated that the incoming administration plans to declare a “national emergency” to expedite mass deportations.
“GOOD NEWS: Reports are the incoming @RealDonaldTrump administration prepared to declare a national emergency and will use military assets to reverse the Biden invasion through a mass deportation program,” Fitton wrote. Trump responded simply, “TRUE!!!”
The scale of the operation would be immense, as more than 10 million undocumented immigrants have reportedly entered the U.S. since President Biden took office in January 2021.
In an interview with NBC News, Trump said he has “no choice” but to start deporting this large influx of illegal immigrants, citing the impact on American communities and national security.
“We need a strong and secure border,” Trump said. “At the same time, we welcome people who come here legally. I’m not against immigration, but it has to be done the right way.”
When questioned about the potential costs, which some left-leaning experts estimate could reach hundreds of billions of dollars, Trump dismissed concerns over the financial implications.
“There is no price tag when it comes to securing our country,” he stated. “When people have committed crimes, when drug lords are tearing apart nations, they will be sent back. We cannot afford to keep them here.”
During his campaign, Trump vowed to initiate the “largest deportation effort in American history,” aiming to restore order at the southern border. He argued that unchecked illegal immigration has devastated local communities and resulted in the loss of American lives.
To spearhead the initiative, Trump has appointed Tom Homan as his “border czar.” Homan, a former acting ICE director, emphasized a strategic approach to deportations, countering fears of indiscriminate mass raids.
“This won’t be a blanket sweep through neighborhoods or the construction of detention camps,” Homan told CBS News. “We’ll conduct targeted arrests, focusing on individuals based on thorough investigations.”
Homan further clarified his stance during a segment on 60 Minutes, addressing concerns about family separations. “Families can be deported together,” he said.
60 minutes: Is there a way to carry out mass deportation without separating families?
Tom Homan: “Of course there is. Families can be deported together.”
Put Tom Homan in charge of ICE! pic.twitter.com/fcS48fKu41
— Tim Young (@TimRunsHisMouth) November 6, 2024
His comments suggest a focus on maintaining family units during the deportation process, countering narratives of forced separations that have sparked controversy in previous years.
Trump’s plan to tackle illegal immigration marks a return to one of his signature issues, emphasizing border security and strict enforcement.
As the administration takes shape, the implementation of this massive deportation strategy will likely be closely watched, sparking debate over its impact on American communities and the broader immigration system.
