A law enforcement association comprised of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) employees is expressing support for President-elect Donald Trump's selections to lead his immigration team next year, as they aim to implement an ambitious mass deportation plan. The National ICE Officers Association's Executive Board has endorsed the appointment of former acting ICE Director Thomas Homan as border czar and the nomination of South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem to head the Department of Homeland Security.
The association, representing ICE members in the Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) branch, was established this year and is seeking to become the exclusive union for the agency. They lauded Homan's experience and Noem's track record in keeping citizens safe, expressing confidence in their ability to bring about necessary changes.
ICE officers are reportedly enthusiastic and prepared to carry out their duties. The Trump administration is gearing up to increase deportations of illegal immigrants nationwide, with plans to expand detention capacity near major cities. While some Democratic officials have voiced opposition to these efforts, certain Republican states, like Texas, have offered support by providing land for deportation staging areas.
An announcement regarding the new ICE leadership is expected soon, with the transition team seeking a candidate with a strong law enforcement background to lead the agency.
