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Trump Names Hardline Immigration Official, Ally to Key Posts, Signaling Focus on Border Security and Deportation

Trump Names Hardline Immigration Official, Ally to Key Posts, Signaling Focus on Border Security and Deportation
Elise Stefanik, US Representative, waves during a rally for Donald Trump at Madison Square Garden, in New York, October 27. Source: Reuters
  • PublishedNovember 12, 2024

President-elect Donald Trump has announced two key appointments to his administration, signaling a continuation of his hardline stance on immigration, Al Jazeera reports.

Trump also selected Congresswoman Elise Stefanik, a longtime ally, to serve as US Ambassador to the United Nations. Stefanik, known for her support of Trump’s “America First” agenda, confirmed her acceptance of the position in a statement, saying she was “truly honored” to advance Trump’s “peace through strength leadership.”

Stefanik’s appointment requires Senate confirmation.

The number of US border patrol encounters with migrants crossing from Mexico “illegally” is currently at levels similar to 2020, the last year of Trump’s presidency, after peaking at a record 250,000 in December 2023.

Trump has vowed to address migrant gangs using the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, which allows the federal government to detain and deport foreign nationals from hostile countries. This measure, coupled with Homan’s appointment, signals a potential return to Trump’s aggressive approach towards immigration. Critics argue that such measures are based on fear-mongering and false narratives, while proponents assert the need for stronger border security and enforcement of immigration laws.

Written By
Michelle Larsen