Administration Reaffirms Broad Deportation Authority
The White House has made clear that any person living in the United States without legal status can face deportation. At the same time, officials say their current focus remains on removing violent offenders first.
A spokesperson said President Donald Trump’s team, including border adviser Tom Homan and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, is aligned on the plan. According to the administration, the priority is to arrest and deport what they describe as the “worst of the worst” criminal offenders who are in the country unlawfully.
Still, officials stress that enforcement is not limited to that group. They argue that anyone without legal status is subject to removal under federal law. The president, they say, is carrying out his pledge to launch what he has called the largest deportation effort in U.S. history.
Focus on Criminal Offenders First
In recent months, administration messaging has centered on violent offenders. Homan said in a previously recorded interview that concentrating on “criminal illegal aliens” helps maintain public support. He added that failing to prioritize serious offenders could weaken confidence in the broader immigration strategy.
However, Homan has also stated that prioritizing criminals does not mean others are exempt. If someone is in the country unlawfully, he said, that person remains eligible for deportation.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt echoed that position. She said the administration’s mission is to remove all undocumented immigrants, beginning with those convicted of violent crimes.
Expanded Enforcement Operations
Federal agencies, especially within the Department of Homeland Security, have stepped up enforcement in several major cities. Operations have taken place in Washington, Los Angeles, and Minneapolis as part of the administration’s immigration crackdown.
The strategy has evolved in some areas. Officials are working more closely with local jails to take custody of undocumented immigrants who are already detained. This approach allows federal officers to make arrests inside facilities instead of conducting more visible neighborhood operations.
Supporters argue this method reduces risks to officers and communities. Critics, however, say the broader deportation push has created fear and uncertainty among immigrant families.
Political Backlash and Protests
Democratic lawmakers and advocacy groups have sharply criticized the administration’s approach. Tensions escalated in Minneapolis earlier this year after fatal encounters involving immigration enforcement officers sparked protests.
Despite the backlash, the White House has said it will not change course. Officials maintain that enforcing immigration law and removing undocumented immigrants, especially those with criminal records, remains a top priority.
President Trump has repeatedly argued that strict enforcement is necessary for public safety. In past remarks, he emphasized rapid action against gangs such as MS 13 and other violent groups.
As enforcement continues, the debate over immigration policy shows no sign of cooling down
