Trump names a "Border Czar" - Here's What to Expect From Him
Cooperation, Not Confrontation with Texas over "Operation Lone Star" for one.
Thomas D. Homan's appointment as "Border Czar" by President-elect Trump is expected to significantly intensify immigration enforcement at the U.S.-Mexico border. Homan served during the previous Trump Administration as Acting Director of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from January 30, 2017, to June 29, 2018
Based on his work in the previous Trump Administration, here's how his appointment will likely impact border policies:
Stricter Enforcement
Homan, known for his hawkish stance on immigration, is likely to implement more aggressive enforcement measures. While at ICE Homan was a strong advocate for strict immigration enforcement.
Enhanced Border Security
We can anticipate a renewed focus on physical border security measures. Homan has been a vocal supporter of border wall construction, for example.
Increased Deportations
Under Homan's leadership, we can expect a substantial increase in deportations. He has been outspoken about deporting millions of undocumented immigrants in the U.S. During his tenure at ICE, the agency ramped up arrests and targeted sanctuary communities.
Zero Tolerance Policy
Homan was one of the architects of the controversial family separation policy. He may reintroduce or expand on similar "zero tolerance" approaches to deter illegal border crossings.
Cooperation, Not Confrontation with Texas
The Biden Administration turned to the courts to challenge some of the border security measures Texas undertook on its own at the border - including the installation of floating barriers in the Rio Grande at a known illegal crossing point. Homan is likely to support the efforts of "Operation Lone Star."
Targeting of Sanctuary Cities
Homan has previously suggested that politicians supporting sanctuary city policies should face legal consequences. His appointment may lead to increased pressure on such jurisdictions.
Expanded Detention
Given Homan's past policies, there may be an expansion of immigrant detention, including for vulnerable groups like pregnant women.
Expedited Removals
Homan is likely to push for faster deportation processes, potentially advocating for expanded use of expedited removal procedures.
Increased Interior Enforcement
While the focus is on the border, Homan's policies may also lead to more aggressive immigration enforcement within the country's interior. He has called for a resumption of workplace raids to apprehend those illegally in the country, for example.
Bottom Line
Thomas Homan's appointment as President-Elect Trump's "Border Czar" signals a probable shift towards more restrictive and aggressive border enforcement policies, aligning closely with Trump's "Day 1" campaign promises to "close the border".
What are your thoughts about Trump's New "Border Czar"?
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