Former NYPD Chief Bill Bratton recently weighed in on former President Trump’s bold plan to deport millions of undocumented migrants, offering a perspective that blends caution and insight. Bratton remarked, “Good luck with that one,” in response to Trump’s proposal to remove as many as 15 million people. Drawing on his extensive experience consulting in Latin America, Bratton highlighted the desperation driving many to seek a better life in the U.S. “These individuals want to work and contribute, even if they are part of the underground economy,” he noted during his appearance on the “Catsimatidis Roundtable Show.”
Bratton expressed concern that Trump’s ambitious goals might not only be unrealistic but could also harm his political prospects and the Republican Party’s image. His comments reflect a larger conversation within the GOP about how to effectively tackle the multifaceted issue of immigration, particularly as Trump keeps it front and center in his campaign for the presidency.
In a recent interview with Time Magazine, Trump elaborated on his strategy, suggesting that he might enlist the National Guard and possibly even the military to carry out his deportation plans. With government estimates indicating around 11 million undocumented migrants currently in the U.S., the logistics of such an operation pose serious challenges.
Interestingly, a recent Scripps News/Ipsos survey reveals that a substantial portion of Americans, including a notable percentage of Democrats, support mass deportations. The survey found that 54 percent of respondents—comprising 86 percent of Republicans, 58 percent of independents, and 25 percent of Democrats—indicated they either “strongly” or “somewhat” favor efforts to deport millions living here illegally. Moreover, 39 percent identified immigration as a key issue for the upcoming election, ranking just behind inflation.
As the 2024 election draws near, immigration remains a crucial topic for voters, and how Republican leaders approach this issue could significantly impact their electoral fortunes. The party must balance strong enforcement with the realities of the current situation to appeal to a broad base.