Former Acting ICE Director Tom Homan recently stated that daily deportation figures are projected to increase as the Trump administration broadens its immigration enforcement efforts beyond individuals deemed violent offenders. During an appearance on ABC News' "This Week," Homan indicated that while current operations focus on those considered public safety or national security threats, this approach will expand. "You're going to see the numbers steadily increase... as we open up the aperture," Homan explained, emphasizing a prioritized approach aligned with President Trump's campaign promises. He further clarified that being in the country illegally constitutes a violation of law and puts individuals "on the table" for potential removal.

Homan's comments follow his warnings to sanctuary cities that their policies won't prevent deportations and may endanger communities, federal agents, and undocumented individuals. Sanctuary cities generally decline to transfer undocumented individuals to federal authorities upon arrest, often releasing them back into the community. Homan has called for cooperation from these jurisdictions, urging them to "work with us, because you've forced us into the community." He explained that locating a target individual often involves encountering others who, while not initially prioritized, may also face arrest if found to be in the country illegally.

Homan stressed the importance of border security in saving lives, arguing that a secured border reduces sex trafficking and deaths during border crossings. He cited a significant increase in both under the previous administration. It was also reported that Homan was in Chicago with Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove to monitor and assist with immigration procedures in the city.