Trump’s border czar pledges “shock and awe” deportations on day one, targeting millions of undocumented immigrants in a crackdown aimed at securing borders and reducing crime.
Tom Homan, the former acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), has promised a dramatic start to the Trump administration’s immigration agenda, pledging a “shock and awe” approach to mass deportations on the first day of the new administration.
Homan, recently named Trump’s border czar, made these remarks during an appearance on Donald Trump Jr.’s show on the streaming platform Rumble. The two discussed plans to deport millions of undocumented immigrants, with Homan describing his overarching strategy.
“I got three words for them – shock and awe,” Homan declared, suggesting that swift action would curb what he referred to as “alien crime,” reduce migrant deaths, and tackle issues like drug overdoses and sex trafficking. “You’re going to see us take this country back,” Homan added, asserting that gang activity, particularly from groups like MS-13, would also be a key target of the administration.
The phrase “shock and awe” typically denotes overwhelming military force, as seen in the 2003 US-led invasion of Iraq. Homan’s use of the term underscores the intensity of the administration’s planned crackdown.
However, Homan’s comments have sparked concerns among immigration advocates and political commentators, particularly regarding the scope of the deportations. Trump has pledged to target tens of millions of undocumented migrants, some of whom have lived in the US for decades. Critics worry that such measures could lead to the targeting of immigrants who are US citizens, with potential denaturalization cases raised against long-standing residents.
Appearing on Fox Business earlier this week, Homan dismissed fears that legal immigrants and US citizens might be affected. “They are perfectly safe, for God’s sake,” he stated. Homan also responded to criticism from public figures like former Democratic HUD Secretary Julian Castro, who described his approach as having a “cowboy attitude.”
Homan defended the administration’s right to enforce immigration laws, emphasizing that families can be deported together to avoid separations. “If a federal judge says you must go home, they have to go home,” Homan said.
Broader Implications
The conversation about Homan’s role and approach to immigration has drawn both praise and criticism. Supporters view the measures as essential to securing the border and combating crime, while detractors argue they risk undermining human rights and destabilizing immigrant communities.
Homan’s ties to Project 2025, a conservative agenda for the next Republican administration, have also raised questions. Despite Trump’s apparent attempts to distance himself from the project, critics worry that its influence could shape a more extreme immigration policy.
As the Trump administration gears up for a potential return to power, Homan’s comments signal that immigration enforcement will remain a central and controversial pillar of their platform. Whether the “shock and awe” approach achieves its intended impact—or sparks greater backlash—remains to be seen.
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