Cato Podcast Protecting Immigration Enforcement Officers and the Constitution
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Oct 14, 2025 David Bier, Director of Immigration Studies at the Cato Institute, brings his expertise to a discussion on the increasing dangers faced by immigration enforcement officers. He contrasts Trump’s two terms, revealing a more aggressive stance in mass deportations. The podcast delves into the implications of racial profiling, due process erosion, and the use of federal resources for immigration enforcement. Bier also critiques misleading narratives surrounding ICE incidents and argues for targeted strategies that better protect officers while addressing constitutional concerns.
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From Targeted Arrests To Broad Street Sweeps
- The current administration expanded enforcement from targeted arrests to broad, street-level sweeps using race and occupation as cues.
- David Bier finds this shift drives a massive rise in arrests outside police custody and risks constitutional violation.
Due Process Seen As An Obstacle
- The administration seeks to erode due process to expedite mass removals, per reported statements from allies like J.D. Vance.
- Bier warns removing procedural checks is central to pursuing indiscriminate deportation at scale.
Operation Wetback Compared To Today
- Bier contrasts the nationwide sweep with Eisenhower's Operation Wetback, which was geographically narrow and promised bracero visas.
- He notes the current program lacks those worker-return guarantees and misleads people about voluntary return benefits.