The Trump administration deported 37,600 people during its first month. Yet Trump removals are still less than the average of 57,000 people per month in the final year of the Biden administration. At least one ICE director was dismissed due to failing to meet the Trump administration’s expectations.
Over the course of the last month, the Justice Department issued a memo allowing ICE to arrest migrants at immigration courts, going back on a Biden-era policy. The U.S. state department designated several criminal gangs from Venezuela as terrorist organizations, making those with alleged connections to said gangs qualified for immediate removal. Finally, the DHS requested assistance from the IRS in investigating businesses suspected of employing illegal immigrants.
Official reports show ICE is both failing to meet expectations and struggling to maintain its’ current removal rate. The agency’s capabilities are limited by logistical challenges such as lack of space and funding. Congress passed a bill to spend $340 billion on border security and deportations over the next four years, which may solve these issues.
While the number of Trump removals hasn’t met expectations, they are making more use of the resources at their disposal than the Biden administration. Additionally, its efforts to undo removal protections for migrants without a criminal record widens the scope for potential deportees. The Trump administration is using all the power and resources at its disposal to maximize the number of individuals removed.
As always, ILBSG actively monitors ongoing U.S. immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, contact us. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you get the right advice based on the most recent laws. In an ever-evolving immigration policy landscape, it’s particularly critical.
