Trump Administration Targets Illegal Immigration with Visa Restrictions and Deportation Efforts

President Trump's administration is intensifying efforts to combat illegal immigration. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced visa restrictions on foreign officials facilitating illegal immigration into the U.S. via the southwest border. This policy targets officials in airport, port authority, customs, and immigration roles who knowingly aid the transit of individuals intending to immigrate illegally. The policy expands upon a 2024 rule affecting private sector officials involved in transporting illegal immigrants. Trump also imposed tariffs on Mexico and Canada, citing their failure to curb illegal immigration and drug flow. He reversed a Biden-era memo, allowing for the arrest and deportation of anyone without legal status. Some illegal immigrants have been flown to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The White House reports a significant drop in border crossings, with a 94% decrease compared to last February. ICE arrests increased by 627% in Trump's first month, and approximately 50,000 illegal immigrants have been removed. The Department of Homeland Security estimated 11 million immigrants lacked legal status in 2022, with some analysts estimating 14 million. Trump aims to deport all immigration law violators.