Official announcements from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security or credible news outlets

Trump's Border Czar to Reinstate Family Detention in Humane Facilities for Largest Deportation Operation Starting Day One

Dec 26, 2024, 04:51 PM

Tom Homan, President-elect Donald Trump's designated 'border czar,' has announced plans to reinstate family detention for migrants at the U.S. southern border. Homan emphasized that the policy will include the detention of migrant families, even those with U.S.-born children, in 'family facilities' designed to be humane. These facilities, described as 'soft-sided tent structures,' are intended to accommodate tens of thousands of migrant families before their deportation. Homan stated that families will have the option to decide whether to be deported together or separated. This move is part of a broader strategy to address illegal immigration, which includes ending the 'catch and release' policy and initiating what is expected to be the largest deportation operation in U.S. history, surpassing President Dwight D. Eisenhower's effort to deport 1.1 million Mexican laborers in 1954. The operation, set to begin on Day One of Trump's second term, will require significant funding and infrastructure, with Homan estimating the need for at least 100,000 detention beds and $86 billion in funding. Additionally, Homan highlighted the need to locate over 300,000 missing migrant children, expressing concerns about their potential involvement in forced labor and the sex trade. Trump's administration plans to dismantle existing policies such as the 'humanitarian parole' program, finish the construction of the southern border wall, revoke birthright citizenship, and reinstate the 'Remain in Mexico' policy.