Former President Trump has revealed plans to utilize the military to expel undocumented immigrants should he secure victory in the November election.
The former president intends to reinstate the Remain in Mexico program and Title 42, policies implemented during his administration. These measures required migrants to await their immigration hearings in Mexico and allowed border officials to turn away migrants due to health concerns related to COVID-19. Additional plans include the continuation of border wall construction and a significant deportation initiative.
In response to questions regarding the Posse Comitatus Act, which prohibits the military from enforcing domestic laws, Trump emphasized that illegal immigrants are not civilians but individuals unlawfully present in the country. He indicated a preference for deploying the National Guard for this purpose but stated readiness to utilize other branches of the military if necessary.
The former president also outlined intentions to enlist local law enforcement in immigration enforcement efforts and threatened to withhold funding from non-compliant local governments.
Illegal immigration remains a pivotal issue for voters, with record numbers of border crossings since President Biden assumed office. A recent Axios survey conducted by The Harris Poll revealed that a majority of Americans perceive illegal immigration as a genuine crisis, with notable bipartisan support for measures such as mass deportations.
