The Trump administration aims to broaden the powers of federal agents to help with deportations, signaling a stronger approach to immigration enforcement, according to a report from the Wall Street Journal.
Key Facts:
- An internal memo by acting Homeland Security Secretary Benjamine Huffman grants immigration authority to agencies within the Justice Department.
- The DEA, ATF, and U.S. Marshals Service will receive the same powers as immigration officers under the memo.
- The FBI already holds immigration-arrest authority (Title 8) but rarely uses it outside of its main focus on national security.
- Despite these moves, no large-scale deportation operations have yet taken place.
- The Pentagon announced it will send 1,500 troops to the southern border, with requests for up to 10,000 more possible.
The Rest of The Story
This step follows a series of actions by the Trump administration to tighten immigration enforcement.
Officials say granting agencies such as the DEA, ATF, and U.S. Marshals Service the power to carry out immigration duties is a way to tap into broader federal resources.
Traditionally, these agencies focus on issues like drug trafficking, firearms, and fugitive apprehension.
They have not typically enforced immigration laws unless those cases overlap with their core missions.
🚨 #BREAKING: President Trump has now given the ATF, DEA, and U.S. Marshals Service the ability to arrest illegals, per WSJ
This instantly added almost TEN THOUSAND new federal agents to the deportation squad
They’re ALL going back! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/j5diSTClN4
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) January 23, 2025
Meanwhile, the Justice Department is telling federal prosecutors to investigate and charge state or local officials in sanctuary cities who obstruct immigration enforcement.
The Pentagon is also sending more troops to the southern border in response to a new executive order from the White House.
Commentary
President Trump’s decision to involve additional law-enforcement agencies in deportations appears wise.
Removing large numbers of illegal immigrants, especially those with criminal records, requires significant manpower and expertise.
These agencies already have experience dealing with dangerous individuals, so extending their authority could improve efficiency.
While some might be concerned about stretching resources, the administration’s focus on deporting criminal offenders first seems like a common-sense priority.
Targeting those who break laws will help reduce crime and make cities safer.
The Bottom Line
The administration is mobilizing various federal agencies to help with deportations, with added troops heading to the southern border.
If executed properly, this plan could increase immigration enforcement and address public safety concerns.
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