Recently appointed by Donald Trump to oversee border security, Tom Homan made a visit to Eagle Pass, Texas, a key hotspot for undocumented immigrant crossings, alongside Republican Governor Greg Abbott of the state. Homan announced plans for what he described as the largest deportation operation in U.S. history under Trump’s new administration: “We have just experienced a massive illegal immigration crisis, where nine out of ten asylum seekers end up with a deportation order. Let me be clear: there will be mass deportation,” he asserted during his speech, as reported by WCTI-TV.
A Stern Warning to Opponents
Homan directed a firm message to Democratic lawmakers likely to oppose these policies: “Do not cross that line. This is a matter of national security and we will not back down.” Both Homan and Abbott placed blame on President Joe Biden and his government for the “humanitarian crisis” unfolding at the southern border.
The Impact of Current Immigration Policies
Abbott emphasized the detrimental effects of current immigration policies, mentioning that over 11 million people have crossed the border illegally in the past four years, resulting in significant human and criminal costs. Homan outlined Trump administration plans to reverse Biden’s immigration policies: “The country wants security, and we are going to finish the job we started. It’s time to act,” he declared.
Expansion of Detention Facilities
During the visit, Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham announced the purchase of a 1,402-acre ranch in Starr County, intended for building facilities to detain and deport immigrants who have committed violent crimes. Buckingham highlighted that this project, known as the “Jocelyn Initiative,” aims to alleviate the burden on local jails and protect Texas citizens.
Local Efforts and National Goals
In a symbolic gesture, Homan and Abbott served meals to soldiers and officers involved in Operation Lone Star, a state-led effort to curb illegal immigration. Abbott claimed his model has reduced immigrant entry into Texas by 86%, and Homan expressed his desire to replicate this success nationwide. Buckingham’s announcement coincided with the start of a new border wall segment construction in Starr County. The official stressed that these actions are meant to ensure citizens’ safety and prevent tragedies like the murder of Jocelyn Nungaray, whose mother attended the event: “We will do everything in our power to ensure no family suffers like Alexis and Jacqueline have,” she concluded.
With Trump’s return to the White House, his administration appears determined to enforce stricter immigration policies, focusing on bolstering border security and prioritizing the deportation of immigrants with criminal records.