Tom Homan, tapped to serve as border czar under President-elect Donald Trump, pledged Friday that the administration will press ahead with its plans to enforce immigration laws, despite opposition from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
The ACLU sued Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) last month, demanding details about the logistics of Trump’s proposed mass deportation program. However, Homan dismissed the lawsuit during an appearance on Fox News, stating that public safety remains the priority.
“We’re focused on removing those who pose risks to our communities,” Homan said, emphasizing the importance of apprehending individuals in secure environments like jails. He argued that sanctuary cities, by refusing to cooperate with ICE, create unnecessary dangers for both law enforcement and the public.
Homan expressed optimism about South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem’s nomination to head the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), calling her an “outstanding choice” to lead the agency. “With her leadership and President Trump’s vision, we’ll get this done,” Homan said.
The ACLU has outlined a comprehensive strategy to fight Trump’s deportation efforts, including legal challenges and lobbying efforts. Key Democratic mayors, including those in Chicago, Tucson and Denver, have also pledged to resist ICE’s operations in their cities.
Homan remains undeterred by these efforts, reiterating that enforcement actions are essential to maintaining public safety. “They can try to slow us down, but they won’t stop us from doing what’s right for American communities,” he said.
