Trump DHS finds ‘influx of illegal immigrants,’ requests local and state assistance

The Department of Homeland Security is facing a critical situation at the southern border, as Acting Secretary Benjamin Huffman has issued a finding calling for an immediate federal response to combat an “actual or imminent mass influx” of illegal immigrants. This finding has prompted Huffman to request assistance from all 50 states to help with immigration enforcement efforts.

Huffman’s determination is based on the belief that the current circumstances surrounding immigration laws in the United States are endangering the lives, property, safety, and welfare of residents across all states. He emphasized the urgent need for a federal response to address the growing influx of aliens arriving at the southern border.

The finding is effective immediately and will expire in 60 days unless extended. During this time, officials will work to deputize local and state law enforcement to assist in immigration enforcement efforts. However, some states, such as California, may resist these efforts. California Attorney General Rob Bonta has stated that local and state enforcement cannot be compelled to perform federal immigration duties, citing Supreme Court precedent.

Despite potential pushback from some states, the Department of Justice is pushing for federal prosecutors to investigate any state or local officials who obstruct immigration enforcement. Huffman highlighted the staggering number of illegal immigrants who have entered the U.S. through the southern border in recent years, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement measures.

Huffman pointed out that in the past four years, over 8 million illegal immigrants have entered the country through the southern border, with millions more evading detection. He also highlighted specific instances, such as December 2022, when border agents released over 140,000 illegal immigrants at the southwest border.

The influx of illegal immigrants poses various challenges, including increased criminal activity such as human trafficking, drug smuggling, and sexual assault. Huffman stressed the importance of controlling the border to prevent further incentives for unlawful entry and criminal behavior.

In response to the crisis, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has intensified efforts to arrest illegal immigrants with criminal histories. In a recent operation, ICE arrested over 460 individuals with violent criminal backgrounds, including offenses such as sexual assault, robbery, burglary, and domestic violence.

Overall, Huffman’s finding underscores the need for a coordinated federal response to address the escalating situation at the southern border. By involving all 50 states in immigration enforcement efforts, the government aims to regain control of the border and ensure the safety and security of all residents.