Tom Homan, who will soon take on the role of Border Czar under President-elect Donald Trump, has unveiled an aggressive plan to address the growing crisis of illegal immigration into the United States. His proposals include mass deportations, targeted workplace enforcement raids, and decisive action to close down the dangerous Darien Gap migration route, which many migrants use to enter the U.S.
In a recent interview, Homan emphasized that safeguarding national security and combating human trafficking will be top priorities for the new administration. One of the key elements of Homan’s plan is the closure of the Darien Gap—a 70-mile stretch of perilous jungle in Panama. This route, often used by migrants seeking to reach the U.S., poses extreme dangers, with many migrants facing life-threatening conditions along the way.
“Shutting down the Darien Gap is not just about stopping illegal immigration; it’s about protecting our country and saving lives,” Homan stated, noting that the U.S. will work closely with foreign governments to end this dangerous migration route. While Panama has already seen a decline in migrant crossings by 42%, Homan insists that more needs to be done to stop the flow of illegal immigration.
Mass deportations will be a cornerstone of the new administration’s strategy. Homan, a former acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), confirmed that workplace enforcement raids will resume. These raids target businesses that employ illegal workers and often uncover human trafficking operations run by criminal cartels. By focusing on these illegal labor operations, Homan believes the U.S. can break up trafficking rings that exploit vulnerable individuals.
The plan also includes expanding ICE’s 287(g) program, which partners local law enforcement agencies with federal immigration authorities. This initiative will help local officers enforce immigration laws more effectively.
Homan made it clear that deportations will extend beyond just the individuals directly targeted. Collateral arrests—where other undocumented migrants are detained during operations—will continue. Although the exact funding for these efforts has yet to be fully determined, Homan stated that an investment of $86 billion would be a “great start” to ensure the nation’s safety and security.
Furthermore, Homan expressed his concerns about the Biden administration’s use of the CBP One app, which allows migrants to schedule asylum appointments. He criticized the app for facilitating entry into the U.S. without thorough vetting, undermining national security.
While some, like shelter director Jose Maria Garcia, argue that reducing legal asylum pathways may push desperate migrants to take even greater risks, Homan remains confident in the effectiveness of his proposed measures. He firmly believes that the overwhelming majority of American voters support a crackdown on illegal immigration. “This is the No. 1 issue for the American people,” Homan declared. “It’s not just about illegal immigration—it’s about protecting our nation.”
Homan’s message to illegal immigrants was blunt: “Go home.”