The recent appointments of Stephen Miller and Tom Homan by President-elect Donald Trump have raised concerns among US migrant rights advocates, signaling a potential continuation of a hardline immigration agenda. Experts and rights groups believe these selections indicate an uncompromising approach to immigration policy under Trump's incoming administration. Notably, Tom Homan, a former director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), has been designated as the “border czar.” Similarly, Stephen Miller, a prominent advocate of stringent immigration measures, is set to become the deputy chief of staff for policy.
Both Homan and Miller were influential figures in some of the Trump administration's most contentious immigration policies during its first term, including family separations at the US-Mexico border and the so-called Muslim ban. As Trump prepares to take office in January with a pledge to conduct the “largest deportation operation in American history,” these appointments underscore his commitment to fulfilling this campaign promise. Greg Siskind, an immigration lawyer, suggests that they might adopt either a more measured approach or a more aggressive one, reflecting on past experiences. Immigration remains a pivotal concern for Americans, highlighted throughout Trump's successful re-election campaign.
He consistently criticized Democratic candidates for their immigration policies and vowed to close the US-Mexico border and deport millions. Introducing Homan as the border czar, Trump emphasized Homan’s capabilities in managing border enforcement. Homan has been vocal about his support for deporting undocumented immigrants. His return to the administration excited many ICE agents and others eager to support Trump's immigration agenda. Miller, known for his incendiary rhetoric, has also backed mass deportations, previously suggesting that the National Guard might be involved and proposing temporary detention camps.
Arash Azizzada, an immigrant rights activist, views their appointments as a signal of Trump's intent to pursue some of his harshest policies. He advocates for blue cities and states to resist cooperating with federal immigration efforts, urging them to protect vulnerable populations. Homan has expressed readiness to escalate enforcement even if local jurisdictions oppose. Migrant advocates have highlighted concerns over Trump's inconsistent definitions of citizenship, potential deportations of those with temporary protected status, and plans to challenge birthright citizenship. Siskind anticipates substantial legal challenges to such initiatives.
Despite this, immigration advocates are bracing for a comprehensive crackdown on migrant rights under Trump's leadership. The possibility of a Republican-controlled Congress further endangers immigrant rights efforts. Advocacy groups emphasize that their mission to defend immigrant rights persists regardless of the political power. Al Otro Lado highlights the ongoing challenges under various administrations, remaining resolute in their fight for justice and readiness to counter a second wave of Trump's policies.
