Incoming Trump admin eyes massive expansion of immigration detention: ‘He will deliver’
The incoming Trump administration is gearing up to significantly expand its capacity to detain illegal immigrants as part of the large-scale deportation operation it has promised to initiate in January. President-elect Trump has been vocal about his plans to launch a mass-deportation campaign following the migrant crisis at the southern border, and it seems that his team is determined to follow through on this pledge.
Karoline Leavitt, a spokeswoman for the transition team, affirmed that President Trump has a mandate from the American people to fulfill his campaign promises, and he intends to do just that. The administration is reportedly considering locations to expand immigration detention centers and is in talks with private prison companies about increasing the number of beds available for migrants.
A source familiar with the plans confirmed that the administration is looking to significantly increase the number of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) beds, with a focus on areas where there has been a high influx of illegal immigrants. Cities like New York City, Washington D.C., and Chicago, known as “sanctuary cities,” have been overwhelmed by the surge of migrants and could see the establishment or expansion of detention centers.
While the plan initially aimed to double the number of ICE beds allocated by Congress, the intention now is to substantially boost capacity, with specific figures yet to be determined. Some existing ICE facilities are not operating at full capacity and could be expanded, such as a facility in Adelanto, California, which has been partially closed due to a court order related to COVID-19.
Critics of the Trump administration’s deportation plans have raised concerns about the cost, but supporters argue that it is more economical than allowing illegal immigrants to remain in the country. The administration may face opposition from Democratic governors, with Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey stating that every possible measure must be taken to protect residents and uphold democracy and the rule of law.
President Trump has made several key immigration-related appointments this week, including naming former acting ICE Director Tom Homan as the “border czar” in charge of border security and deportation operations. Kristi Noem has been chosen to lead the Department of Homeland Security, with a focus on securing the border and restoring safety to American communities. Additionally, Stephen Miller, who played a significant role in shaping immigration policies during Trump’s first term, will serve as assistant to the president and deputy chief of staff for policy and homeland security adviser.
The administration’s plans to ramp up deportation efforts and expand detention capacity indicate a firm commitment to addressing immigration issues, as promised during the election campaign. The coming months will likely see increased enforcement actions and a focus on border security under the leadership of President Trump and his team.
