In the first month of his presidency, President Trump, alongside Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, has initiated significant actions to address border security and immigration enforcement. This effort marks a notable shift in policy from the previous administration.
"President Trump said from the start: criminal illegals have no place in our homeland. He is keeping his promise," stated Secretary Noem.
Among the measures taken, President Trump declared a national emergency at the southern border and resumed construction of the border wall. The administration reinstated the "Remain in Mexico" policy and ended catch-and-release practices. Changes also include repealing rules that allowed criminal aliens to avoid arrest by hiding in certain locations such as schools and churches.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has reverted to using statutory language like "illegal alien," aiming to remove political correctness from law enforcement processes. ICE arrests have reportedly doubled for criminal aliens, with fugitive arrests tripling since Trump's inauguration. Daily encounters at the border have decreased by 93%.
To further enforce immigration laws, illegal aliens are being detained at Guantanamo Bay, including those accused of violent crimes. International cartels and gangs such as MS-13 have been designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations under Trump's directives.
President Trump signed into law the Laken Riley Act, which mandates federal detention for illegal immigrants accused of specific crimes including theft and assault on law enforcement officers. Additionally, humanitarian parole policies were tightened to a case-by-case basis.
Secretary Noem concluded Temporary Protected Status extensions for Venezuelans initiated by her predecessor and froze grants to non-profits involved in facilitating illegal immigration. DHS has also expanded its collaboration with various agencies including deputizing members from several federal departments to assist with immigration operations.
In financial matters, Secretary Noem reclaimed $80 million previously allocated by FEMA for housing illegal aliens in New York City hotels.
The administration asserts these actions reflect a commitment to securing borders and ensuring community safety across America.