Can Donald Trump deliver on his pledge to fix the border?
Nov 13, 2024
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Freddy Gray hosts Todd Bensman, a journalist and fellow at the Center for Immigration Studies, who dives into Trump's looming border crisis. They discuss Tom Homan's appointment as border czar and what that may mean for immigration policies. The conversation explores the economic factors fueling illegal migration and critiques the 'migrant industrial complex.' Bensman highlights budgeting ties between taxpayer money and immigration organizations, as well as controversies surrounding illegal migration's impact on voting and congressional representation.
The appointment of Tom Homan as border czar signals an anticipated shift towards stricter immigration enforcement and mass deportations under Trump's administration.
The 'Trump effect' illustrates how Trump's rhetoric affects migrant decision-making, emphasizing the need for consistent policy enforcement to deter illegal crossings.
Deep dives
Impacts of Tom Homan's Appointment
The appointment of Tom Homan as the border czar by the incoming Trump administration is expected to signal a tough stance on immigration, particularly mass deportations. Homan, with his extensive background in law enforcement and border control, is believed to bring crucial experience that could reshape immigration policies. His familiarity with the dynamics of illegal immigration gives him unique insight, especially following the events of the previous three years under the Biden administration. This could lead to the implementation of stricter enforcement measures that build upon previously established tools, like Operation Carousel, which aimed to curb illegal immigration through aggressive interdiction.
Rhetoric and the Migrant Response
The concept of the 'Trump effect' suggests that Donald Trump's rhetoric significantly influences the decision-making of potential migrants considering entry into the United States. Past observations indicated that before deportation policies were enacted, his campaign language led to a sharp decline in migrant numbers as individuals felt uncertain about the likelihood of successfully crossing the border. However, this pause can quickly dissipate if rhetoric does not translate into effective policies. Without consistent enforcement, there is a risk that migrant flows may resume despite initial deterrents, highlighting the necessity for follow-through on promises made.
Democratic Pushback and Political Ramifications
The anticipated aggressive response from Democrats to immigration measures under a new Trump administration is already forming, with plans for information campaigns and legal challenges. Despite facing significant losses in power partly due to immigration issues, the Democratic Party is gearing up to counter the narrative surrounding mass deportations with emotive stories and historical comparisons. However, there is also an indication that some Democrats may begin re-evaluating their positions on immigration, especially in areas where public sentiment supports stricter immigration control. This reassessment will be crucial as party members navigate the politically charged landscape shaped by past electoral outcomes related to immigration policies.
Freddy Gray is joined by Todd Bensman, journalist and fellow at the Center for Immigration Studies. They discuss the border crisis that Trump will inherit from the Democrats, and whether he can do anything to solve it.
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