Tom Homan, chosen as “border czar” by President-elect Donald Trump, is preparing big changes to the U.S. border and immigration policies. Here’s a look at what he’s planning for Trump’s return to the White House.
A Massive Deportation Operation
Homan says the new administration will start with “shock and awe” by launching the largest deportation effort in U.S. history. He wants to target migrants with criminal records, those already ordered to leave by a judge, and others considered a threat. However, the success of this plan depends on how much funding Congress provides.
Homan plans to:
- Increase Detention Beds: Migrants may need to be held for weeks while waiting for deportation.
- Deploy Military Support: Trump may declare a national emergency to use the military for border enforcement.
- Enforce Existing Laws: Homan emphasizes that deportation will follow legal processes to maintain public trust.
Ending ‘Catch and Release’
Homan wants to stop releasing migrants into the U.S. while they wait for court hearings, a practice known as “catch and release.” He believes this policy encourages illegal immigration.
Key steps include:
- Reinstating ‘Remain in Mexico’: Asylum seekers would have to wait in Mexico while their cases are reviewed.
- Faster Court Processes: Homan wants to prevent long delays in handling asylum claims.
- Encouraging Legal Entry: He suggests migrants with valid asylum claims use official entry points instead of crossing borders illegally.
Building the Border Wall
Homan supports finishing Trump’s wall along the southwest border to make it harder for migrants to cross.
Ending Birthright Citizenship and ‘Chain Migration’
Homan backs Trump’s plan to stop giving automatic U.S. citizenship to children born in the U.S. if their parents are undocumented. He also wants to limit family reunification programs, which allow migrants to bring relatives to the U.S.
Targeting Employers of Undocumented Workers
Homan aims to crack down on businesses hiring undocumented immigrants by:
- Expanding E-Verify: Requiring all employers to use a system that checks workers’ legal status.
- Worksite Inspections: Increasing inspections to discourage illegal hiring.
He also suggests creating more temporary work programs to allow legal immigration for jobs in industries like farming and construction.
Family Separation Policy
Homan has defended the controversial family separation policy from Trump’s first term, though he says the administration could avoid separations by deporting families together.
Using Executive Orders for Fast Action
Homan plans to rely on executive orders to bypass Congress and implement new border security measures quickly. These could include banning migrants who ignore deportation orders from ever receiving legal status in the U.S.
What’s Next?
Homan says the administration will start strong on Day 1. He promises his approach will be firm but fair, focusing on securing the border and enforcing immigration laws. He believes these measures will reduce illegal crossings and make immigration safer and more controlled.