The incoming Trump administration is gearing up to implement stringent border measures, strike down Biden-era policies, and ramp up the detention and deportation of migrants on a large scale. President-elect Donald Trump, who made immigration a focal point of his 2024 presidential campaign, is shifting his focus towards interior enforcement and the removal of undocumented immigrants already in the United States.
Plans are underway to expand detention facilities to fulfill Trump's mass deportation campaign promise, with a review of metropolitan areas where capabilities exist. Executive actions are being prepared, reminiscent of Trump's first term, which could be rolled out soon after he takes office.
The proposed measures include reinstating the 'remain in Mexico' program, revising asylum restrictions, revoking protections for migrants covered by Biden's humanitarian parole programs, and undoing ICE's enforcement priorities. Another executive order under consideration would make detention mandatory and call for an end to releasing migrants, potentially paving the way for large-scale detentions and deportations.
The administration is also evaluating the possibility of a national emergency declaration to unlock Pentagon resources for expanding detention space. Private sector involvement, including companies like CoreCivic, is expected to play a significant role in providing additional detention capacity.
The team tasked with implementing these plans includes key figures such as Tom Homan as 'border czar,' Stephen Miller as deputy chief of staff for policy, and South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem to head the Department of Homeland Security. Operational plans involve large staging facilities near the border, worksite raids, and collaboration with county jails to accommodate undocumented immigrants.
With a focus on public safety and national security threats, the administration aims to target operations towards those already in the country. The selection of experienced officials like Homan underscores the seriousness of the incoming administration's approach to immigration enforcement.
During his first term, Trump oversaw the deportation of over 1.5 million people, a figure lower than the deportations carried out during Obama's terms. The administration's efforts to stem the flow of migrants and address existing challenges are expected to be prioritized in the initial days following Trump's inauguration.
