Donald Trump Confirms Plan to Declare National Emergency for Mass Deportations

 

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has announced plans to declare a national emergency upon taking office to fulfill his campaign pledge of mass deportations of undocumented migrants living in the country. The move aims to launch what Trump described as "the largest deportation program in American history."

In response to a social media post from Judicial Watch’s Tom Fitton, who speculated about the use of "military assets" for deportations, Trump confirmed the administration's intention to carry out sweeping immigration actions. "On Day 1, I will launch the largest deportation program in American history to get the criminals out," Trump stated during a campaign rally at Madison Square Garden.

He further vowed to "rescue every city and town" affected by undocumented migration, emphasizing a hardline approach against what he termed "vicious and bloodthirsty criminals."

Trump has already positioned immigration hard-liners in his prospective administration. South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem has been nominated for the role of Homeland Security Secretary, pending Senate approval, while former Acting ICE Director Tom Homan has been designated as “border czar.”

Homan outlined the deportation plan's priorities, indicating a focus on expelling individuals with criminal records and those deemed national security risks. However, he did not rule out the possibility of deporting families together.

Throughout his campaign, Trump proposed deploying the National Guard to assist with deportation efforts. He also suggested reallocating military forces stationed overseas to bolster security along the U.S.-Mexico border. Such measures would represent a significant departure from the military’s traditional domestic role, which typically avoids involvement in law enforcement activities.

An estimated 11 million undocumented migrants live in the U.S. without legal status. The American Immigration Council has warned that a mass deportation program could cost billions of dollars annually, raising concerns over financial and logistical feasibility.

Trump’s commitment to his immigration agenda signals a fundamental shift in U.S. policy, drawing both support and criticism from across the political spectrum. As preparations for his administration continue, the proposed actions are expected to spark significant debate and legal challenges.