Thomas Homan, President-elect Trump’s new “border czar,” has a clear message for Democratic governors who oppose mass deportations.
“If they’re not willing to help, then get the hell out of the way because ICE is going to do their job,” Homan, former acting ICE director, told Fox News on Friday.
Trump announced Homan’s appointment on Sunday, placing him in charge of securing the borders and handling the deportation of illegal immigrants.
Homan responded to comments from Democratic governors, like Mass. Gov. Maura Healey, who said she would not help with deportations. Healey emphasized that state police wouldn’t assist in these operations.
Homan suspects some sanctuary cities may work behind the scenes, despite public opposition. “Some sheriffs have been coming forward,” he said, pointing to the serious crimes committed by illegal immigrants.
While cooperation from state and local authorities would help, Homan isn’t waiting for it. “If you don’t want to work with us, then get the hell out of the way,” he declared. “We’re going to do it.”
“We have a mandate,” Homan continued. “The American people want the border secured, and we’ll deport those who are national security threats. Step aside, or face consequences.”
The first priority will be deporting illegal immigrants with criminal records. “It’s going to be a targeted enforcement operation, not a massive sweep,” Homan explained. But he made it clear, “If you’re in the country illegally, you’ve got a problem.”
Homan warned that the Biden administration’s handling of illegal immigration means consequences. “We had a massive, never-before-seen immigration surge. 90% will be ordered removed.”
He also believes many illegal immigrants will leave voluntarily once incentives are gone. “It depends on resources and money,” he said, but the operation will happen under Trump’s leadership.
A former New York police officer and Border Patrol agent, Homan has been key to Trump’s deportation strategy. A 2016 Washington Post article called him “really good at deporting people.”
Homan said he didn’t ask for a position but stands ready to help. “The southern border is the biggest national security vulnerability I’ve seen,” he stressed, calling border security a nonpartisan issue. “We’re going to get it done, no matter what people think.”