Trump Says “True” That He Plans National Emergency and Military Action to Address Illegal Immigration

WASHINGTON – President-elect Donald Trump announced plans to declare a “national emergency” to implement a large-scale deportation effort targeting undocumented migrants, with the potential use of military resources. This statement, made on the social media platform Truth Social, confirmed his intentions to reverse immigration policies enacted during President Biden’s administration.

Responding to a post by Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton, Trump endorsed the proposal with a simple “TRUE!!!” Fitton had shared reports that the incoming administration was preparing to address what he described as an “invasion” at the border through military-supported deportations.

Trump, set to take office on Jan. 20, has pledged to oversee what he claims will be the largest deportation effort in U.S. history. However, using active-duty military personnel for such actions may face legal obstacles due to the 1878 Posse Comitatus Act, which restricts federal military involvement in domestic law enforcement. The act does allow for the National Guard to assist in law enforcement roles under specific circumstances.

The president-elect also hinted at invoking the 1798 Alien Enemies Act, which could enable the detention and deportation of foreign nationals considered threats to national security. This rarely used law, however, typically requires a formal declaration of war by Congress. Trump has not clarified whether he plans to designate a specific nation, such as Venezuela, to justify such actions.

To bolster his border strategy, Trump has created a “border czar” position, appointing former acting ICE director Tom Homan. Homan is expected to collaborate with federal and state agencies to secure the southern and northern borders.

During a recent interview, Homan emphasized the administration’s focus on removing undocumented immigrants, including those in sanctuary cities that refuse to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. He suggested using financial and legal measures to pressure such cities into compliance, adding, “Public safety and national security threats must be the priority.”

As part of this intensified border security effort, images have emerged of the Texas National Guard reinforcing the border with barbed wire and fencing, while migrants await processing near the Rio Grande. These scenes underscore the challenges ahead for Trump’s administration as it seeks to implement its ambitious immigration policies.