The Trump administration’s migrant raids will begin on the first full day of Donald Trump’s presidency, targeting undocumented migrants in major US cities. Tom Homan, the incoming “border tsar,” has promised widespread operations to detain and deport migrants living in the US without authorization, prioritizing criminals and gang members. These actions mark the start of what Trump has vowed to be the largest deportation program in US history.
Raids to Target Sanctuary Cities
The raids, expected to launch Tuesday, will focus on sanctuary cities like Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, Denver, and Miami. These cities limit cooperation with federal immigration officials, making them a primary target for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Sources familiar with the operation told CBS that Chicago, in particular, will serve as “ground zero” for the campaign.
Homan confirmed the plans during a Republican gathering in Chicago last month, stating, “Count on it. January 21st, you’re going to see a lot of ICE agents in your city looking for criminals and gang members.”
Shift from Previous Immigration Policies
Under President Joe Biden, ICE prioritized the arrest of recent border crossers, national security threats, and serious criminals. However, Trump’s plan broadens the scope, making all undocumented migrants, regardless of criminal history, vulnerable to arrest and deportation. This includes individuals who have lived and worked in the US for years without legal status.
The administration is also expected to reinstate immigration raids at construction sites, which were discontinued during Biden’s presidency. These operations aim to crack down on industries employing undocumented workers.
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Concerns in Local Communities
The looming raids have created widespread fear, particularly in Latino neighborhoods. In Chicago’s Pilsen area, a congregation at Lincoln United Methodist Church expressed anxiety over the potential impact on families.
Reverend Emma Lozano questioned the consequences for children of detained parents. “If someone with five children gets taken, who will take the children in? Will the family be divided?” she asked.
Legal immigrants also shared their fears. D. Camacho, a 21-year-old from Mexico, admitted, “I’m scared, but I can’t imagine what people without papers are feeling.”
Reports suggest Trump’s team may abandon the longstanding policy of treating churches as off-limits for ICE arrests, raising further concerns among faith communities.
Legislative Backing
The operation coincides with the expected passage of the Laken Riley Act. Named after a college student murdered in Georgia by an undocumented migrant, the bill mandates the detention of migrants suspected of criminal activity. Trump’s team has touted the legislation as a critical step in ensuring national security and law enforcement.
Operational Challenges
Despite the administration’s ambitious plans, logistical hurdles remain. ICE faces limited detention space, which may complicate efforts to hold the large number of detainees expected during these raids.
As the raids approach, sanctuary cities prepare for significant upheaval, while advocates for undocumented migrants brace for what could be a long and contentious battle over immigration enforcement.
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