Trump Plans Mass Deportations, End to Birthright Citizenship, Open to DACA Solution
TL/DR –
President-elect Donald Trump has stated in an interview that everyone who is in the US illegally should be deported, a plan that could involve the removal of the American citizen family members of those deported. He also expressed intentions to end birthright citizenship, which could lead to the stripping of rights from those born in the US to undocumented parents. However, Trump mentioned he is open to working with Democrats on legislation that would ensure Dreamers, undocumented immigrants who entered the US as children, could remain in the country.
Trump’s Stance on Deportation & Birthright Citizenship
President-elect Donald Trump plans to deport all illegal immigrants from the U.S., according to his latest “Meet the Press” interview with Kristen Welker. He is even considering the deportation of American citizens related to the undocumented.
Furthermore, Trump stated his intention to end birthright citizenship, a fundamental part of the 14th Amendment, effectively removing rights from those born to illegal immigrants in the U.S. On the issue of Dreamers, however – undocumented immigrants who came to the U.S. as children – he is willing to cooperate with Democrats for possible legislation.
Trump’s mass deportation plan, a cornerstone of his campaign, will prioritize undocumented immigrants who have committed crimes, later expanding to “people outside of criminals”. The specifics of what crimes would make one eligible for deportation were not detailed.
The number of unauthorized immigrants crossing into the U.S. spiked during the Biden administration, although recent months have seen a decrease after executive actions.
Trump, in his campaign, had emphasized border control, often highlighting violent acts committed by illegal immigrants despite a 2024 National Institute of Justice study which showed half the arrest rate for violent crimes by undocumented immigrants compared to native-born Americans.
As for families having mixed immigration status, Trump suggests that U.S. citizens may opt for deportation alongside illegal family members, to avoid family separation. This standpoint echoes Tom Homan, Trump’s choice for border czar in the upcoming administration.
Asked about reviving the zero-tolerance policy, Trump said it would depend on the family. “If they come here illegally but their family is here legally, then the family has a choice. The person that came in illegally can go out, or they can all go out together.”
On the issue of birthright citizenship, Trump plans to repeal it via executive action. He incorrectly stated that the U.S. is the only country with birthright citizenship, whereas a Library of Congress review shows over 30 countries, including Canada and Brazil, have similar policies.
However, Trump exhibited a softer approach towards Dreamers, indicating his readiness to work with Democrats on a plan for them. These individuals arrived in the U.S. as children and are protected under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.
—
Read More US Political News