Donald Trump is poised to send an unambiguous message to undocumented immigrants as he takes office, with plans for sweeping arrests targeting those without legal status across the United States. According to Tom Homan, a key figure in Trump’s incoming administration, the operation is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, a day after Trump’s inauguration.
The operation marks one of the administration’s initial steps in fulfilling Trump’s campaign pledge to deport millions of undocumented immigrants. Speaking with Fox News on Friday, Homan, expected to serve as the administration’s “border czar,” outlined the scale and objectives of the planned raids. “There will be a big raid all over the country. Chicago is just one place among many,” said Homan, who previously led Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during Trump’s first term.
Under Homan’s leadership, ICE implemented controversial policies, including the separation of migrant families at the southern border. Homan emphasized that the upcoming actions aim to strictly enforce immigration laws. “What we’re saying to ICE is that you will enforce immigration law without apology,” he stated. While the focus will be on individuals deemed threats to public safety, Homan stressed that “no one is excluded if they are found to be residing in the country illegally,” as reported by AFP.
The Wall Street Journal, citing sources familiar with the plan, reported that the operation in Chicago alone would involve 100 to 200 ICE agents and is expected to last all week.
Chicago Police Department spokesperson Don Terry clarified the city’s stance on the impending raids, stating that local authorities would not interfere with federal actions. “The department does not document immigration status and will not share information with federal immigration authorities,” Terry told the New York Times.
Chicago, a Democratic stronghold, is among the self-proclaimed sanctuary cities in the United States. These municipalities limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities to protect undocumented residents from detention solely based on their immigration status.
The Trump administration’s plans signal a broader shift in immigration policy. Undocumented immigrants across the U.S. are expected to face increased scrutiny and enforcement measures under the new administration’s aggressive deportation agenda.
Even states previously considered sanctuaries are beginning to align with stricter immigration enforcement policies. In Massachusetts, Governor Maura Healey has started phasing out certain benefits for undocumented immigrants and expressed a willingness to cooperate with federal authorities under Trump’s administration.
New York, historically regarded as a sanctuary state, has also tightened its stance. Several programs aimed at supporting immigrants have been dismantled, reflecting the state’s shifting priorities. New York City Mayor Eric Adams recently met with Donald Trump to discuss ways to assist the new administration in implementing its campaign promises.