President-elect Donald Trump prepares for an aggressive reset of U.S. immigration policies through a series of executive actions scheduled for his first week in office.
According to Politico, Trump's administration plans to implement extensive changes to current immigration policies through executive orders, including ending catch-and-release practices and expanding expedited removal authority.
The incoming administration's strategy involves multiple approaches to address immigration concerns, with former border czar Tom Homan and Stephen Miller leading the charge. Their plans include crafting a national emergency declaration to secure additional resources for border security and deportations while also working to restore the Remain in Mexico policy.
The president-elect's team is developing plans to terminate Biden administration programs, including the humanitarian parole initiative for residents of Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. This program has allowed over 500,000 immigrants to enter the U.S. legally with American sponsors. Similar programs for Afghans and family reunification processes will also face elimination.
Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Calif.) shared his perspective on Trump's upcoming executive actions: "I haven't seen something that is dramatically new."
Legal challenges are anticipated from immigration advocates and civil rights groups, who are preparing to analyze and contest Trump's executive orders. Blue state attorneys general are also ready to respond to potential constitutional violations.
The administration faces significant hurdles in executing its mass deportation plans, particularly regarding funding and logistics. Immigration advocacy groups highlight the substantial costs associated with deportation facilities and operations.
Immigration Hub's co-executive director Kerri Talbot notes:
Given that tent facilities for deportations can cost over $400 a night, they are quickly going to burn through billions of dollars in deportations.
Congressional support will be crucial for securing necessary resources, including funding for detention facilities and additional personnel. Republican lawmakers have been meeting with Trump officials to strategize and potentially convert executive actions into lasting legislation.
The administration plans to revive the 287(g) program agreements, enabling state and local agencies to participate in immigration enforcement. They will also address sanctuary cities through executive orders outlining enforcement priorities.
Former Trump chief adviser Steve Bannon advocates for more extensive measures, including a complete moratorium on immigration. This proposal has sparked internal debate, particularly regarding H-1B visas for specialty foreign workers.
The Justice Department will play a vital role in crafting asylum restrictions to avoid previous legal complications. The team is also considering designating drug cartels as terrorist organizations, though this wasn't accomplished during Trump's first term.
President-elect Trump's immigration agenda represents a significant departure from current policies, with executive actions planned to begin on Monday. The administration faces substantial challenges in implementing its proposals, including legal obstacles, resource limitations, and the need for congressional support to achieve lasting reform. The success of these initiatives will depend on careful policy crafting, strategic implementation, and the ability to secure necessary funding and legislative backing.
