Here’s is everything we know so far.
President-elect Donald Trump’s new border czar, Tom Homan, is preparing to launch a robust plan to address the illegal immigration crisis once he takes office in January. His approach stands in stark contrast to that of the Biden administration, particularly Vice President Kamala Harris, who has repeatedly claimed the southern border is secure while neglecting to address the record-breaking surge in illegal crossings under her watch.
According to Homan, the first priority will be addressing the millions of individuals who have entered the U.S. illegally, labeling this as a direct violation of U.S. law. While the Biden administration has often cited “asylum” claims as a reason for allowing illegal immigrants to remain, Homan emphasizes that the vast majority of these individuals—nearly 90%—do not qualify for asylum and are therefore subject to removal.
“Are we talking about mass deportation? Absolutely,” Homan said. “The law must be enforced. When nine out of ten individuals are ordered removed by immigration judges, but they don’t leave, we are left with no choice but to implement a large-scale deportation operation.” He pointed out that failing to follow through with these deportation orders undermines the rule of law and sends the message that illegal immigration is acceptable.
Homan’s plan will prioritize deportations based on public safety threats, national security concerns, and individuals who have become fugitives by ignoring court orders to leave. This includes those on the federal Terrorist Watch List and Special Interest Aliens (SIAs) from countries with national security concerns. Homan has warned that the porous southern border has become a major national security risk, with a record number of potential terrorists crossing into the U.S.
Additionally, Homan pointed to the more than 660,000 criminal foreign nationals who have been identified for deportation, including individuals involved in violent gangs like the Tren de Aragua. Under the Trump administration, Homan envisions the U.S. military playing an expanded role in supporting border enforcement. While federal immigration agents will carry out the arrests and deportations, the military will assist with logistics, transportation, and intelligence gathering.
Finally, Homan encouraged foreign nationals in the U.S. illegally to voluntarily return to their home countries. Those who choose to leave on their own will avoid the severe penalties associated with formal deportation, including a 20-year ban from re-entering the U.S. for any reason.
Homan’s strong stance on border security and immigration enforcement underscores the Trump administration’s commitment to restoring the rule of law and ensuring that those who break U.S. immigration laws are held accountable. As Homan aptly puts it, “If you’re in the country illegally, you’ve got a problem.”