What Immigrants Does Trump Want to Deport?
The election of Donald Trump as the 45th President of the United States in 2016 brought with it a significant shift in immigration policy. Trump’s campaign rhetoric was marked by strong anti-immigration sentiments, and his presidency saw the implementation of several measures aimed at deporting certain groups of immigrants. This article explores the types of immigrants that Trump administration targeted for deportation.
1. Unauthorized Immigrants
The most prominent group of immigrants that Trump wanted to deport were those who were in the United States without legal authorization. Trump’s campaign promised to build a wall along the Mexican border and to deport millions of unauthorized immigrants. His administration also sought to crack down on so-called “sanctuary cities” that provide shelter to unauthorized immigrants.
2. Gang Members and Criminals
Another group of immigrants that Trump administration aimed to deport were those with criminal records, particularly gang members and individuals with prior convictions. Trump argued that these individuals posed a threat to national security and public safety, and that deporting them would make the country safer.
3. Central American Migrants
The Trump administration also targeted Central American migrants, particularly those who had crossed into the United States through Mexico. These individuals were fleeing violence and poverty in their home countries and sought refuge in the United States. Trump’s administration implemented policies aimed at detaining and deporting these migrants, despite international criticism and legal challenges.
4. Dreamers
One of the most controversial aspects of Trump’s immigration policy was his decision to rescind the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. DACA protected certain immigrants who were brought to the United States as children from deportation and allowed them to work and study in the country. Trump’s administration sought to deport these so-called “Dreamers,” despite their contributions to American society and the strong opposition from many Americans.
5. Refugees
The Trump administration also sought to restrict the number of refugees admitted to the United States. Trump’s executive order, known as the “travel ban,” suspended the entry of citizens from several Muslim-majority countries into the United States. Additionally, the administration implemented a 50,000 cap on the number of refugees admitted annually, significantly reducing the number of individuals who could seek refuge in the United States.
Conclusion
The Trump administration’s immigration policy focused on deporting certain groups of immigrants, including unauthorized immigrants, criminals, Central American migrants, Dreamers, and refugees. These measures were met with strong opposition from many Americans and legal challenges, but they marked a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy. As the country moves forward, it remains to be seen how the next administration will address the complex issue of immigration and the rights of immigrants in the United States.
