Tom Homan, President-elect Donald Trump’s choice for border czar, vowed Friday that legal challenges from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) won’t derail Trump’s immigration enforcement agenda. Speaking on Fox News, Homan reiterated his commitment to public safety, dismissing efforts by sanctuary cities and activists to obstruct deportations.
The ACLU initiated legal action against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in November, seeking details on how the agency plans to implement Trump’s campaign promise to execute widespread deportations. Homan dismissed the lawsuit as a political tactic, stating, “They’re not going to stop us. We will do the job we’re here to do.”
Homan criticized sanctuary city policies that protect illegal immigrants, arguing they jeopardize public safety. “We can arrest someone in a jail where it’s safer for everyone involved,” Homan explained, pointing out that releasing dangerous individuals back into communities creates unnecessary risks for officers, the public and the detainees themselves.
Highlighting Trump’s nomination of South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem to lead the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Homan expressed confidence in the team’s ability to carry out the president-elect’s agenda. “Kristi Noem will be an outstanding secretary. Together, we’ll get this done,” Homan said.
The ACLU has pledged to block the deportation program through legal challenges, lobbying and cooperation with liberal leaders. Prominent Democratic mayors in cities like Chicago, Tucson and Denver have openly opposed ICE’s efforts, vowing to limit cooperation.
Additionally, the ACLU is pressuring Congress to slash funding for DHS’ immigration enforcement, accusing Trump of promoting “inhumane” policies. Despite this, Homan remains resolute, saying, “They can make it more difficult, but we are committed to protecting public safety and enforcing immigration laws.”
