Trump Aims to Deport all Immigrants in the US illegally
Former President's plan for mass deportations and stricter immigration enforcement sets the stage for a highly contentious second term
- Trump aims to declare illegal immigration a national emergency and launch widespread deportations on January 20
- His proposal includes protecting "Dreamers" but faces legal and constitutional challenges, especially on birthright citizenship
- Deporting all undocumented immigrants could cost up to $88 billion annually
Donald Trump, gearing up for his second term as President, is preparing to declare illegal immigration a national emergency on January 20, with the aim of deporting all immigrants living in the U.S. without legal status.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security estimates around 11 million undocumented immigrants currently reside in the country, with the actual number likely higher today.
In a recent NBC News interview, Trump emphasized the necessity of tough action, stating, “I think you have to do it.” His plan for mass deportations would utilize resources from across the federal government to enforce a sweeping crackdown. Trump also touched on his desire to strike a deal to protect “Dreamers” — immigrants brought to the U.S. as children although his previous attempts to end programs offering them deportation relief were thwarted by the Supreme Court.
The former president’s aim to eliminate birthright citizenship faces significant legal hurdles, as it is enshrined in the U.S. Constitution. Trump suggested a constitutional amendment might be necessary, a process that could prove challenging.
Adding weight to his enforcement efforts, Trump’s incoming border czar, Tom Homan, and deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller have called for increased immigration enforcement funding, with Homan estimating a price tag of $88 billion annually for a decade-long deportation effort.
With both legal and financial challenges ahead, Trump’s aggressive stance on immigration promises to dominate his upcoming presidency.
