Donald Trump has vowed to oversee the largest deportation program in U.S. history, with raids targeting undocumented migrants set to begin on the first full day of his administration. Reports suggest Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents will initially focus on “sanctuary” cities, including Chicago, New York City, and Los Angeles, where cooperation with federal immigration authorities is limited.
Tom Homan, Trump’s appointed “border tsar,” promised an aggressive nationwide operation during a Fox News interview, stating that January 21 would mark the start of widespread enforcement. Homan emphasized that Chicago, known for its significant migrant population, would serve as “ground zero” for these efforts. ICE operations under Trump’s directive are expected to depart from the Biden administration’s prioritization of targeting individuals posing national security threats or with serious criminal backgrounds. Instead, all undocumented migrants, including those with long-term residency and no criminal history, are now at greater risk of arrest and deportation.
In addition to targeting individuals, workplace raids at industries like construction—where undocumented migrants are often employed—are expected to resume. Such measures had been discontinued under President Biden.
The anticipated crackdown has sparked fear among migrant communities, particularly those in agricultural sectors. Advocacy groups have reported an uptick in calls for legal advice and guidance on creating temporary guardianship plans for children who may be left behind. Sarait Martinez, executive director of the Centro Binacional para el Desarrollo Indígena Oaxaqueño, stated, “The administration is not yet sworn in, but people are already afraid.”
Adding to the anxiety is speculation that Trump’s administration could revoke policies that make churches off-limits for ICE arrests. If enacted, this would eliminate a crucial refuge for undocumented individuals.
The operation faces logistical challenges, including limited custody space to detain individuals. However, the impending Laken Riley Act, named after a Georgia college student killed by an undocumented Venezuelan man, could exacerbate these concerns. The legislation, expected to pass Congress next week, would mandate the detention of undocumented migrants suspected of criminal activity, even if charges are not filed.
With fears mounting and policies set to intensify, the U.S. faces a significant shift in its immigration landscape, one likely to leave a lasting impact on millions of lives.
