President Donald Trump has instructed U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to ramp up daily deportations to between 1,200 and 1,500 arrests, according to The Washington Post. The directive focuses on removing criminal illegal aliens while avoiding public backlash from viral videos of arrests that could erode support for enforcement.
On Saturday, senior ICE officials were briefed on the new quotas, which require each field office to make at least 75 arrests per day. Managers have been warned that missing targets could lead to accountability measures. ICE agents are tasked with targeting the 1.5 million illegal migrants who have been convicted of crimes or ordered deported by judges. ICE reported 956 arrests on Sunday under the heightened effort.
Trump’s approach prioritizes targeted enforcement over sweeping neighborhood operations, a strategy emphasized by border czar Tom Homan. “We know exactly who we’re going to arrest before we leave,” Homan said, explaining that the focus is on known criminals and individuals who pose threats to public safety. The plan ensures that every arrest is pre-approved and conducted in a planned and humane manner.
Sanctuary city policies remain a significant challenge for ICE operations. These policies prevent ICE from apprehending criminals in jails, forcing agents to conduct riskier operations in public areas. Homan highlighted that arrests in uncontrolled environments endanger both agents and civilians.
To meet deportation goals, the Department of Homeland Security has expanded enforcement authority to other federal agencies, including the U.S. Marshals, DEA, and ATF. These agencies will assist ICE in identifying and apprehending illegal aliens.
The administration also seeks to avoid economic disruption. During Trump’s first term, gradual deportations encouraged businesses to invest in workplace automation, reducing reliance on illegal labor and raising wages for American workers. Trump’s current strategy aims to balance strict enforcement with economic stability and public safety.
