Tom Homan Issues Hard Warning as ICE Expands Operations into Sanctuary Cities
In a striking and direct warning, former Acting ICE Director Tom Homan made headlines with a bold declaration about rising tensions in immigration enforcement. Reflecting his fierce stance, he stated, “The left wants to come at an ICE officer with a bat? It would be a BAD DAY for the person holding that bat!” This comment illustrates not only Homan’s frustration but also the increasing resistance federal officials are encountering from sanctuary city leaders and activists.
As the new border czar appointed by President Donald Trump, Homan has stepped to the forefront of a significant crackdown on illegal immigration. His remarks come as U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) ramps up operations targeting sanctuary cities like Portland, Seattle, and New York. The intensified efforts began after Labor Day 2023 and have gained momentum with Trump’s return to office in January 2025.
“We’re done playing games,” Homan asserted at a recent press conference. He indicated that there will be a noticeable increase in enforcement actions in cities that have been noncompliant with ICE operations. The targeting of undocumented immigrants is especially focused on those considered a danger to public safety and national security. Homan estimates that about 70% of those arrested in these operations possess criminal records, including violent crimes. He stressed, “DUIs kill over 10,000 people a year. That’s a public safety threat.”
Upon taking office, President Trump quickly declared a national emergency at the southern border and deployed military troops to aid border security efforts—an unprecedented action since his initial term began in 2017. The military is involved in deportation strategies that had not previously been utilized, including the use of military aircraft to transport migrants back to their home countries.
“The criminals will no longer be able to hide in America’s schools and churches,” said Acting DHS Secretary Benjamin Huffman, defending the removal of protections for sensitive locations. Previously regarded as off-limits to enforcement, schools, churches, and hospitals are now fair game under the new guidelines. This has sparked outrage from various religious groups, including the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, who describe the shift as “a tragic transformation of places of care into places of fear and uncertainty.”
For Homan and officials aligned with Trump, this strategy is a necessary measure to address gaps in immigration enforcement. He argues, “No other law enforcement agency is held to those standards,” emphasizing the need for consequences to deter illegal entry into the U.S.
This policy change signals a shift that allows for arrests in a broader range of locations, particularly in sanctuary cities where local leaders have refused to cooperate with federal officials. Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell criticized the escalated operations as “political theater and an overreach of federal authority,” while Portland’s mayor vowed non-cooperation from local law enforcement.
Despite local pushback, ICE has already redirected resources into these unwilling jurisdictions, focusing especially on high-threat individuals with serious criminal histories. As Homan explained, “Everyone in the country unlawfully is on the table.” This expansive approach means that even collateral arrests—those who happen to be present during federal actions—are likely to occur.
While advocates raise alarm over potential humanitarian implications, particularly for families and children affected by the increased arrests, Homan reiterates that prioritizing public safety is paramount. He cites specific concerns regarding gang involvement, indicating that operations remain focused on addressing the actions of individuals who pose a risk to community wellbeing.
The Trump administration stands firm in defending these measures as lawful under executive authority and national emergency powers. For instance, Trump’s national emergency declaration fast-tracks policy decisions, including troop deployments and deportation processes. Military personnel now operate at the U.S.-Mexico border, enhancing security and logistics.
The implications of these sweeping changes extend beyond U.S. borders. Neighboring countries, including Guatemala and Mexico, are experiencing increased deportations, raising concerns about diplomatic relations due to the rapid turnover of individuals being sent back to their home nations.
Inside the U.S., a growing atmosphere of tension persists within immigrant communities, particularly in sanctuary jurisdictions. Reports from places like Chelsea, Massachusetts, indicate that undocumented individuals without prior criminal records are caught in the sweep of enforcement actions, exacerbating fear among them.
As layered legal challenges develop, experts scrutinize the extent of executive authority regarding the military’s involvement in civilian law enforcement. Doubts also arise concerning the legality of rescinding protections for asylum seekers and limiting legal representation for detainees.
Nevertheless, Homan and supporters maintain that a firm interpretation of existing laws necessitates strict immigration enforcement. He boldly stated, “Sanctuary cities lock us out of the jails,” pinpointing the hazards this poses to community safety.
The administration’s hardline approach to immigration is intertwined with its overall political strategy as the country moves toward 2025. With a large segment of voters calling for reinforced border control, the current emphasis allows federal agencies to pursue widespread deportations. The battle over the nation’s immigration future is primed for a decisive turn. As Homan expressed firmly, “Don’t screw with ICE.”
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