Despite a sharp rise in ICE arrests, President Donald Trump and border czar Tom Homan are insisting that enforcement efforts must be expanded. Both officials say the agency is making progress, but that the current rate of deportations is not high enough.
Homan, who oversees border enforcement for Trump, said that ICE arrests have tripled compared to last year, yet he remains unsatisfied. “There are more criminal aliens that need to be arrested, hundreds of thousands,” he said, pointing to sanctuary cities and information leaks as challenges ICE must overcome.
Trump has echoed Homan’s concerns, reportedly telling aides that the number of arrests is “too low” despite the agency’s increased efforts. While acknowledging the difficulties involved in tracking fugitives, he stated that his administration is prioritizing the removal of dangerous criminals.
ICE reports that 11,000 arrests have been made in the past 18 days, averaging 787 per day. However, some detainees have been released due to overcrowding and other logistical concerns. Homan has instructed ICE officials to ensure that no one is released without approval from top leadership.
To support enforcement efforts, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has requested that the IRS assist in targeting businesses employing illegal immigrants. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent received a formal request asking IRS agents to aid in investigations into human trafficking networks and employment fraud.
The administration is also negotiating agreements with foreign governments to speed up deportations. Recent polls show that most Americans support deporting illegal immigrants, though opinions shift when details about enforcement policies are discussed. Trump and Homan continue to push for an expanded crackdown with more aggressive action expected in the coming months.
