On January 22, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order suspending the entry of immigrants at the U.S.-Mexico border. This action represents a continuation of Trump's efforts to combat illegal immigration, initiated immediately after his inauguration on January 20, 2025.
Following his swearing-in, Trump declared a national emergency at the border, facilitating the release of federal resources for the region. One of his primary goals is to resume construction of the border wall, with an announcement of deploying additional troops to reinforce security.
The executive order also expands the powers of immigration enforcement agents, allowing them to detain any suspect without restriction. The Trump administration has revoked measures from the Biden era, enabling arrests in sensitive areas like schools and hospitals.
Trump has promised the largest mass deportation in U.S. history, targeting millions of undocumented immigrants. Key measures include:
National Emergency: The declaration allows for military and National Guard deployment to the border, enhancing security and facilitating wall construction.
End of Automatic Citizenship: An executive order eliminates automatic citizenship for children born in the U.S. to undocumented immigrants or temporary visa holders.
Expedited Deportation: The administration has broadened the scope of expedited deportations, allowing for quick expulsions without judicial hearings.
Arrests in Protected Areas: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has lifted restrictions on detaining immigrants in hospitals, schools, and churches.
“Remain in Mexico” Policy: The Trump administration is reinstating a program requiring asylum seekers (excluding Mexicans) to wait in Mexico while their claims are processed.
Restrictions on Parole: The DHS has issued guidance to limit the use of parole for humanitarian entry, which previously allowed many immigrants to enter the U.S.
Additionally, federal immigration agents have begun targeted enforcement in Colorado, focusing on individuals with pending criminal cases and non-criminal migrants who have final orders to leave the country. This operation follows a commitment to prioritize the deportation of criminal migrants.
Trump's administration is also dismantling initiatives related to diversity, equity, and inclusion, mandating the closure of all related offices and terminating employees by January 31, 2025.
In summary, the Trump administration is rapidly implementing significant changes in immigration policy, emphasizing strict enforcement and the removal of prior administration measures.