Donald Trump’s new “border tsar,” Tom Homan, has directed Democratic governors to “get the hell out of the way” to facilitate mass deportations in their states, pledging to override any state efforts to block his plans for the largest deportation operation in U.S. history. Governors like California’s Gavin Newsom and New York’s Kathy Hochul are reportedly preparing to resist these efforts.
“I’ve seen some of these Democratic governors say they’re going to stand in the way. They’re going to make it hard for us,” Homan told Fox News, suggesting that if assistance isn’t offered from New York City, they may need to double the number of agents deployed.
Homan, previously the head of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the architect of the policy separating migrant children from families, advocated for local police collaboration in deportation efforts and hinted at potential pressure on local law enforcement through federal grants. He asserted that while asylum seekers have rights, enforcing court decisions is essential.
Stephen Miller, known for his hardline immigration positions, has been appointed as deputy chief of policy. Miller has played a significant role in Trump’s immigration strategies, including family separations. After leaving the White House, he founded America First Legal to challenge the Biden administration on various issues.
Trump has named Homan the “Border Czar,” responsible for comprehensive border security. “There is nobody better at policing and controlling our borders,” Trump stated. Homan is also a contender for Secretary of Homeland Security and has promised a well-targeted deportation strategy, emphasizing humane treatment during operations.
During his campaign, Trump frequently criticized irregular immigrants, pledging on his first day to launch an extensive deportation initiative. Homan reassured that military involvement would not be part of the plan, and operations would be conducted by ICE in a “humane manner.”
He expressed frustration over media portrayal of deportation efforts, warning those in the U.S. illegally to be cautious. “You’ve got my word. Trump comes back in January, I’ll be in his heels,” Homan said, vowing to execute the biggest deportation operation the country has seen.
Trump is also considering candidates for his administration ahead of his January 20 inauguration and has reportedly offered Republican Representative Elise Stefanik the role of U.S. ambassador to the United Nations.