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Trump Orders Use of 'Alien' and 'Illegal Alien', Halts Court Notices in Second Term Immigration Shift

Jan 22, 2025, 02:34 PM

President Donald Trump has initiated a series of changes in immigration policy and terminology within his administration during his second term. According to reports, Trump has directed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol to revert to using the term 'alien' instead of 'migrant' or 'noncitizen' in all communications, as per an ICE memo. This directive aligns with the legal terminology defined in the Immigration and Nationality Act. The Biden administration had previously changed these terms in 2021. Additionally, Trump has ordered a halt to the issuance of court date notices, known as Notices to Appear (NTAs), for individuals caught crossing the border illegally. This move is part of a broader shift away from the 'catch-and-release' policies of the previous administration, with new directives emphasizing the use of the term 'illegal alien' for those in the country without authorization. These changes were implemented immediately following Trump's second term inauguration.