Recent concerns regarding President-elect Trump's proposal to declare a state of emergency at the border and utilize the military for mass deportations have been addressed by an expert, who suggests that fears may be exaggerated.
Alfonso Aguilar, a former U.S. Office of Citizenship chief and director of Hispanic engagement at the American Principles Project, reassured that the country is not heading towards militarization. He emphasized that neighborhoods with immigrants will not be militarized.
Trump's confirmation of a potential national emergency declaration and military involvement in a mass deportation program has sparked debates. However, Karoline Leavitt, a spokesperson for the Trump transition team, highlighted that Trump aims to fulfill his campaign promises with the support of the American people.
While concerns have been raised about potential military presence on American streets, Aguilar clarified that the military's role would primarily be to provide logistical support to agencies like ICE and CBP. He emphasized that targeted arrests, particularly focusing on criminals, would be the initial approach.
Aguilar explained that federal law restricts the military's domestic use, indicating that ICE officers would lead deportation efforts with military assistance in logistics. On the border, the military would serve as a deterrent and support Border Patrol operations.
ICE is expected to conduct workplace raids, with the military offering logistical aid in detaining and transporting migrants. Aguilar dismissed claims of widespread military involvement in immigrant detection within neighborhoods.
Several blue state leaders have expressed opposition to Trump's deportation plans, with promises to protect undocumented immigrants. Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker have vowed to utilize all available resources to safeguard migrant residents.
Pritzker acknowledged the limitations of federal enforcement manpower and the challenges of widespread deployment across states. He emphasized the need for cooperation while asserting state efforts to shield undocumented immigrants.
