President Donald Trump and his border chief Tom Homan are demanding tougher immigration enforcement, arguing that ICE’s arrest numbers are still too low despite increased activity. The administration is pushing for more deportations and arrests, saying current efforts do not go far enough.
Homan, who has overseen border enforcement under Trump, stated that ICE has tripled its interior arrests compared to last year. However, he made it clear that he is “not satisfied” with the progress. “There are more criminal aliens that need to be arrested, hundreds of thousands,” he said, pointing to challenges like sanctuary city protections and leaks that undermine ICE’s efforts.
Trump has also voiced frustration with ICE’s pace. While praising immigration authorities for their work, he has privately complained that the number of arrests is “too low” and has instructed his team to take more aggressive action. “Finding murderers is not easy. Some of them are actually smart,” he said, noting that ICE agents are working around the clock to remove criminals from the country.
In the last 18 days, ICE has conducted approximately 11,000 arrests, averaging 787 per day. Despite the increase, some detainees have been released due to medical concerns, lack of detention space, and other logistical factors. Homan has addressed the issue with ICE’s acting director, emphasizing that all releases must be approved by top officials.
In an effort to expand enforcement, the Department of Homeland Security has requested the IRS provide agents to help investigate human trafficking networks and businesses employing illegal workers. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent received a formal request from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem seeking criminal investigators to aid deportation efforts.
Meanwhile, the administration is negotiating with foreign governments to expedite deportations, particularly with Central American nations. Public opinion polls suggest most Americans support stronger enforcement, though opinions shift when specific policies are detailed. Trump and Homan remain committed to expanding arrests and deportations, with more enforcement actions expected in the coming months.
