As a U.S. immigration attorney, I am deeply concerned about the ramifications of Donald Trump’s proposed immigration policies for 2025. Members of Trump’s campaign have declared that his plans will echo his previous deportation efforts, draw inspiration from Eisenhower-era immigration enforcement, and leverage the U.S. military to enact these measures.
What is Operation Wetback?
Eisenhower’s administration oversaw the horribly-named “Operation Wetback,” the mass deportation of up to 1.3 million undocumented Mexicans illegally from the U.S. states of Arizona, California and Texas. The deported immigrants did not have any of their rights honored, they were just deported! The operation, which lasted several months, went forward with at some kind of approval from the Mexican government (not officially declared), labor groups, and Mexican Americans worried that uncontrolled immigration made the lives of legal immigrants more difficult. It seems that even the American public was supportive of this atrocity. The raids disrupted American agricultural work in the effected areas, and several Mexicans died due to heat stroke while in the custody of U.S. immigration officials. This is why Trump’s plans are so disturbing!
Here’s a closer look at what we might expect if these policies are implemented.
Unprecedented Domestic Deportation Operations
Trump’s plan includes initiating the largest domestic deportation operation in American history. This would involve an extensive effort to locate and remove undocumented immigrants from the United States, raising serious concerns about the humanitarian and legal implications of such large-scale actions.
Detaining Migrants on Military Bases
Another alarming aspect of Trump’s immigration strategy is the proposal to detain migrants on military bases. This move would represent a significant departure from traditional detention facilities, potentially leading to conditions and oversight that fall far short of acceptable standards for human rights and dignity.
Deporting Migrants Using Military Planes
Trump also intends to use military planes to fly migrants out of the country. This militarization of deportation processes is unprecedented and raises questions about the ethical and logistical feasibility of such an approach.
Construction of Mass Deportation Camps
To address the issue of detention space shortages, Trump’s plan calls for building mass deportation camps. This evokes images of internment camps and raises profound concerns about the treatment and rights of detainees within these facilities.
Withholding Benefits from U.S.-Born Children of Undocumented Immigrants
One of the most controversial elements of Trump’s plan is the proposal to withhold passports, Social Security numbers, and other government benefits from children born in the United States to undocumented immigrants. This tactic challenges the long-standing interpretation of the 14th Amendment, which guarantees birthright citizenship.
Deployment of National Guard and State Police
To bolster immigration enforcement, Trump aims to deploy National Guard troops and state police. This militarization of immigration enforcement is troubling and could lead to heightened tensions and potential abuses of power.
Challenging the 14th Amendment with Executive Orders
Trump’s strategy also includes using executive orders to challenge the 14th Amendment’s guarantee of birthright citizenship. This unprecedented move would likely face significant legal challenges and could fundamentally alter the landscape of American citizenship.
Aggressive Enforcement Tactics
Trump plans to employ aggressive immigration enforcement tactics, such as large-scale raids and street-level roundups. These methods are likely to instill fear within immigrant communities and may result in widespread civil rights violations.
Mobilizing the Department of Defense under the Insurrection Act
Lastly, Trump proposes mobilizing the Department of Defense under the Insurrection Act to enforce his immigration policies. This radical measure would blur the lines between military and civilian roles in law enforcement, posing a serious threat to democratic norms and the rule of law.
What this means for Americans and US Immigrants
Trump’s proposed immigration policies for 2025 are a stark departure from traditional approaches to immigration enforcement in the United States. As an immigration attorney, I am deeply troubled by the potential human rights violations, legal battles, and societal impact these policies could entail. It is crucial for us to stay informed and engaged in discussions about the future of immigration policy in our country, ensuring that it aligns with our values of justice, equality, and human dignity.
For your most complicated immigration questions, we are here for you – schedule your consultation today with Shepelsky Law Group!