Immigration debates in America are ongoing. Tom Homan, a key figure, was the acting director of ICE from January 2017 to June 20181. His strong views on deporting undocumented immigrants and opposing sanctuary cities1 have sparked both praise and criticism. He is a strong voice in immigration law enforcement, making him both influential and polarizing.
Key Takeaways
- Tom Homan served as the acting director of ICE during the Trump administration, overseeing a significant increase in immigration arrests and detentions.
- Homan advocated for aggressive immigration enforcement policies, including the implementation of the controversial “zero tolerance” policy that resulted in family separations.
- After leaving ICE, Homan became a contributor to Fox News, where he continued to be a vocal proponent of hardline immigration policies.
- Homan has been a key figure in the ongoing debate around immigration reform and border security, with his views often aligning with the Republican party’s stance on these issues.
- In 2024, Homan was nominated by President Trump to serve as the “border czar” during his second term, reflecting the administration’s commitment to his vision for immigration enforcement.
Early Life and Education Background
Tom Homan was born on November 28, 1961, in West Carthage, New York. He has spent over 30 years in law enforcement and immigration service2. He started his career by getting an associate degree in criminal justice from Jefferson Community College2.
He then earned a bachelor’s degree from SUNY Polytechnic Institute. This education helped solidify his background.
Homan’s career in law enforcement began as a police officer in West Carthage. He joined the Immigration and Naturalization Service in 19842. He worked in various roles, including Border Patrol agent and supervisor, gaining expertise in immigration enforcement3.
His experience led him to higher positions in the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency.
Academic Achievements and Early Career
Homan has shown a strong commitment to professional development3. With over 30 years of experience, he has gained a lot of knowledge in immigration enforcement3. His degrees played a key role in his successful career.
Transition to Immigration Service
Homan’s move from local police to immigration service shows his adaptability and dedication2. His experience and education have given him the skills needed for immigration enforcement.
Homan’s journey from West Carthage to ICE shows his commitment to public service2. His expertise and leadership have earned him respect in immigration enforcement.
| Key Milestones | Description |
|---|---|
| 1984 | Joined the Immigration and Naturalization Service |
| 2013-2017 | Served as the Executive Associate Director of ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations, overseeing the removal of over one million undocumented migrants |
| 2017-2018 | Served as the Acting Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) |
Rise Through Immigration and Customs Enforcement
Tom Homan’s career in immigration enforcement spanned many years, showing his deep knowledge and dedication to border security4. By 2014, he started pushing for policies to stop illegal border crossings. This included separating children from their parents, a move he is often called the “intellectual father” of. The Trump administration later adopted this policy5.
Homan’s skills in deportation practices made him stand out in the agency, and he kept moving up5. Under President Obama, ICE set a record for deportations during Homan’s time5. His tough stance on immigration made him a key player in the field.
Homan’s push for stricter immigration laws caught attention5. President-elect Donald Trump named him the “Border Czar,”4 and Homan promised to lead the biggest deportation effort in the country if Trump won4.
Homan’s climb through Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was marked by his strong commitment to border security. He was willing to take tough steps, like the family separation policy, to reach his goals5. His approach has made him a divisive figure in the immigration debate in the United States.
“If New York City does not cooperate with efforts to deport migrant criminals, the number of agents sent to New York City may double.” – Tom Homan, Former Acting ICE Director4
Tom Homan’s Leadership at ICE Under Obama
Tom Homan played a crucial role at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during the Obama years. He was appointed Executive Associate Director in 2013. His time there was filled with achievements and praise for his work in deportations6.
Notable Achievements and Recognition
In 2015, President Barack Obama gave Homan the Presidential Rank Award as a Distinguished Executive. This award is for outstanding service and achievements6. His work in immigration enforcement made him a key figure in the administration’s immigration policies.
Policy Development and Implementation
Under Homan, ICE created and put into action many immigration policies. These policies greatly affected deportation and border security6. His vision and expertise set the stage for stricter enforcement actions, which would grow under the Trump administration7.
| Key Immigration Policies Developed Under Homan | Impact |
|---|---|
| Zero-Tolerance Policy | Resulted in the separation of thousands of migrant families at the U.S.-Mexico border68 |
| Targeting of Sanctuary Cities | Increased ICE enforcement actions in jurisdictions with policies limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities7 |
| Workplace Raids and Targeted Arrests | Resulted in a surge in non-criminal immigration arrests, including the detainment of pregnant women78 |
Homan’s leadership and policies during Obama’s time set the stage for a tougher immigration stance. This stance would grow even stronger under the Trump administration78.
Appointment as Acting ICE Director
In January 2017, Tom Homan became the acting director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) by President Donald Trump9. During his time, ICE saw a big jump in arrests. There was a 38% increase from Inauguration Day to the end of April 2017 compared to the year before9.
Homan was known for his tough words on immigration. He said undocumented immigrants “should be afraid” and wanted to charge politicians who support sanctuary cities with crimes9. But, his permanent ICE director nomination was not confirmed by the Senate. This led to his retirement in 2018 due to frustration9.
The Trump administration’s “Zero Tolerance” policy was in place during Homan’s time. It led to over 5,500 immigrant children being separated from their parents at the U.S.-Mexico border in 20189. By April of that year, 1,401 children were still without confirmed reunification9. President Trump later signed an executive order in June 2018 to stop the family separations9.
Even after leaving ICE, Homan kept speaking out for stricter immigration laws. In 2023, Trump said he would make Homan the “border czar,” a role that doesn’t need Senate approval9. The Biden administration ended the family separation policy in 20219.
After leaving ICE, Homan joined the conservative Heritage Foundation as a visiting fellow. He continued to share his views on immigration9. His new role as “border czar” aims to support the Trump administration’s immigration policies9.
“Undocumented immigrants should be afraid.”
– Tom Homan, Former Acting ICE Director
Homan’s time as acting ICE director under Trump changed the agency’s focus. There was a push for more arrests and strict rules for undocumented immigrants9. His new role as “border czar” shows Trump’s commitment to tough immigration policies, even with Biden’s efforts to change some of these policies9.
The debate on immigration reform is ongoing. The impact of people like Tom Homan will be crucial in shaping the U.S. immigration system910.
Key Immigration Policies and Enforcement Strategies
Tom Homan was a key figure in the Trump administration’s immigration policies. As the former Director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), he played a crucial role. He was behind the “zero tolerance” policy, which led to family separations at the U.S. border11.
Homan believed these practices were necessary for border security. He argued they were needed to deter people from crossing illegally, despite the humanitarian concerns11.
Zero Tolerance Policy Implementation
Homan was key in enforcing immigration laws when the Trump administration started the zero-tolerance policy at the U.S.-Mexico border12. This policy caused thousands of children to be separated from their parents. It faced a lot of criticism and legal challenges11.
Homan, however, said families who crossed the border did so knowing they would be separated. He believed the policy was crucial for border security11.
Stance on Sanctuary Cities
Homan strongly opposed sanctuary city policies. These policies limit how much local law enforcement works with federal immigration authorities. He pushed for stricter enforcement against cities that didn’t comply with ICE detainer requests11.
Homan suggested doubling the number of agents in states led by Democrats if they didn’t help with deportations11.
Border Security Measures
Homan promoted stronger border security measures as part of his immigration strategy. He wanted to increase the number of ICE agents and detention beds. He also aimed to scrap Obama-era policies that limited deportations12.
Homan’s goal was to remove as many undocumented immigrants as possible. He wanted to create “the biggest deportation force this country has ever seen.”11
Despite the controversy, Homan’s impact on immigration enforcement was significant. His stance on border security and aggressive tactics have shaped the nation’s immigration policies121113.
| Key Immigration Enforcement Measures | Impact |
|---|---|
| Zero Tolerance Policy | Resulted in the separation of thousands of children from their parents at the border11. |
| Stance on Sanctuary Cities | Advocated for stricter enforcement measures against jurisdictions that refused to comply with ICE detainer requests11. |
| Border Security Measures | Aimed to create “the biggest deportation force this country has ever seen.”11 |
“If we don’t enforce the law, we have no credibility with the American people. […] If you start picking and choosing which laws you’re going to enforce, then you have no laws.”
– Tom Homan, Former ICE Director11
Impact on Immigration Law Enforcement
Tom Homan led the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to increase its efforts14. He changed the focus to deport more undocumented immigrants14. This led to more workplace raids and a tougher stance on immigration14.
Homan’s actions greatly affected the immigration and border security debate14. He was chosen by President-elect Donald Trump to be the “border czar”14. During his time at ICE under President Obama, a record number of deportations were done14.
He was key in the Trump administration’s “zero tolerance” policy14. This policy led to thousands of migrant children being separated from their parents14.
Homan wanted to focus on deporting criminals and threats first14. But, studies show that about 4 million U.S. citizen kids live with an undocumented parent14. This shows the human side of immigration enforcement.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Detention Beds at ICE | 41,50015 |
| Deportations Under Obama | 432,000 in 201315 |
| Deportations Under Trump | Never exceeded 350,00015 |
| Surge in Deportation Arrests | 40% during Homan’s time at ICE15 |
Homan’s work has greatly influenced immigration law enforcement141615. His policies and practices still affect immigrants across the U.S141615..
“Defend the Border and Save Lives: Solving Our Most Humanitarian and Security Crisis” – Tom Homan’s book reflecting his perspective on border security and immigration matters15.
Homan’s role as the Trump administration’s “Border Czar”16 and his support for the “zero tolerance” policy16 have had big impacts16. The influence of White House staff, like Homan, can shape policies16.
Post-Government Career and Fox News Role
After leaving his job as Director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in June 2018, Tom Homan17 started a new chapter. He became a well-known Fox News contributor. In this role, he shared his insights on immigration and border security, using his vast experience.
Media Presence and Commentary
Homan’s17 work on Fox News has greatly influenced the national immigration debate. He has been clear about his views, like the “zero tolerance” policy17 and family separations at the border17. His strong arguments make him a popular guest on news shows.
Political Advocacy
Homan17 is also a key player in politics, pushing for tough immigration laws. He has spoken out in Congress17, debating with Democrats like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Pramila Jayapal17. His strong beliefs on topics like sanctuary cities and border security have made him a leading voice in immigration policy.
He also works with conservative think tanks and policy groups. This helps shape immigration enforcement strategies. His efforts go beyond media, making him a significant force in immigration policy.
Tom Homan’s18 move from government to Fox News contributor and advocate has kept him in the immigration spotlight. His clear views and strong arguments have made him a key player in the national immigration conversation.
Views on Immigration Reform
Tom Homan was once the acting head of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under Trump. He strongly supports strict immigration policies and better border security19. He wants more deportations, opposes sanctuary cities, and pushes for stricter immigration laws19.
Homan’s ideas have greatly influenced the conservative view on immigration19. He plans to lead the “biggest deportation force” if Trump wins again in 202519. He believes families can be deported together, without separating parents from their kids19.
He’s also a key player in Project 2025, a plan for Trump’s second term to tighten immigration rules even more19. Homan says he’s ready to round up immigrants at work if Trump wins again19.
But, his ideas are very controversial. Critics say they’re inhumane and violate civil rights19. Yet, his supporters think his tough stance is needed to fight illegal immigration and protect the country’s borders19.
| Key Immigration Policies and Enforcement Strategies | Description |
|---|---|
| Zero Tolerance Policy | Homan led a “zero tolerance” policy during Trump’s first term, causing thousands of migrant children to be separated from their parents19. |
| Stance on Sanctuary Cities | Homan has always opposed sanctuary city policies, which limit local police’s work with federal immigration agencies19. |
| Border Security Measures | Homan pushes for stronger border security, like more deportations and stricter immigration laws1920. |
Tom Homan believes in strong border security and fighting illegal immigration, even if his ideas are debated19. His impact on conservative immigration policies is big and keeps the debate going19.
Role in Project 2025 and Future Plans
Tom Homan, the former acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), is shaping the future of immigration in the U.S. In February 2022, he joined the Heritage Foundation, a key conservative think tank. He contributed to their “Project 2025”2122. This plan aims to change federal policies and staff to fit a conservative agenda.
Project 2025 is a detailed plan made by over 100 conservative groups, including Trump administration allies22. It calls for big changes in government agencies and policies. Homan’s work on this project shows his strong views on immigration and his vision for border control.
Heritage Foundation Involvement
Homan’s role in Project 2025 is significant. The plan wants to arrest, detain, and deport many undocumented immigrants, matching Homan’s strict immigration views21. The Heritage Foundation is funding the project, paying $100,000 to the American Accountability Foundation21.
Vision for Immigration Enforcement
Homan’s work on Project 2025 shows his commitment to tough immigration policies and better border security. The plan aims to hire thousands of conservatives for government jobs, including Homeland Security21. Homan wants to change Homeland Security, as outlined in the project, written by Ken Cuccinelli, a Trump-era official21.
As the former acting director of ICE, Homan is a key voice in immigration debates. His work on Project 2025 and push for stricter border control mean he’ll likely shape immigration enforcement’s future.
Appointment as Border Czar
In November 2024, President-elect Trump named Tom Homan as the “border czar” for his second term23. This role will have Homan overseeing the U.S. borders, including the south and north, as well as maritime and aviation security23. He will also manage the deportation of undocumented immigrants, aiming to increase deportations and workplace actions23.
During his time at ICE, Homan saw a 40 percent rise in immigrant arrests in 201724. His new role as “border czar” shows the Trump administration’s commitment to strict immigration policies and border security23. Trump didn’t mention Homan’s exact position in his social media announcement23.
But experts fear harsh immigration policies could worsen the humanitarian crisis at the border24. The number of U.S. border patrol encounters with migrants is similar to the peak in December 2023, a record from Trump’s first term24. Homan’s plans for deportations and workplace actions could strain the immigration system and disrupt families, despite research showing immigrants are less likely to commit violent crimes24.
| Key Metrics | Under Trump | Under Biden |
|---|---|---|
| Violent Crime Rate | Increased | Decreased every year |
| Undocumented Immigrant Arrests | 40% increase in 2017 | Decreased |
| Border Patrol Encounters | 250,000 peak in Dec 2023 | Comparable to 2023 peak |
As the new border czar, Tom Homan will be key in shaping Trump’s immigration policies and border security23. His tough stance may win over the President’s base, but it’s unclear if it will solve the border’s complex issues or make them worse24.
“The appointment of Tom Homan as ‘border czar’ signals a focus on targeted and planned deportations conducted by ICE.”
Conclusion
Tom Homan has spent over three decades in law enforcement and immigration policy. He has been a key player in shaping U.S. immigration enforcement25. His career has seen him move from being a police officer to acting director of ICE and soon to be border czar25.
His hardline stance, including the family separation policy at ICE26, has sparked both praise and criticism. This shows how complex and contentious immigration issues are in the U.S.
Homan’s new role as border czar could mean more aggressive immigration enforcement25. He supports mass deportations, believing they will save money25. This could lead to a stronger focus on border security and illegal immigration25.
However, these policies come with human and financial costs25. The debate on immigration reform will likely continue for years.
Tom Homan’s legacy in immigration enforcement is complex, with both achievements and controversies27. As we move forward, watching his influence and the new U.S. immigration policy will be crucial.
FAQ
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Source Links
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Homan – Tom Homan
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_Homan – Tom Homan
- https://www.bostonglobe.com/2024/11/11/nation/tom-homan-trump-border-czar-deportations/ – What to know about Tom Homan, Trump’s incoming ‘border czar’ – The Boston Globe
- https://nypost.com/2024/11/11/us-news/trump-border-czar-tom-homan-vows-sanctuary-city-crackdown/ – Exclusive | Trump’s new border czar Tom Homan vows that sanctuary cities will not stop him from deporting migrant criminals: ‘We’re coming’
- https://alaskapublic.org/2024/11/11/what-to-know-about-tom-homan-the-former-ice-head-returning-as-trumps-border-czar/ – What to know about Tom Homan, the former ICE head returning as Trump’s ‘border czar’
- https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-tom-homan-border-czar-olivia-troye-1983903 – Trump’s “border czar” is “extreme, ineffective”: Ex-homeland security aide
- https://americasvoice.org/blog/thomas-homan/ – Immigration 101: Who is Tom Homan? – America’s Voice
- https://www.ajc.com/news/nation-world/trump-names-tom-homan-former-director-of-immigration-enforcement-as-border-czar/SBQ5ZEXLQRGYLFMJGXMVPIDTEQ/ – Trump names Tom Homan, former director of immigration enforcement, as ‘border czar’
- https://www.npr.org/2024/11/11/nx-s1-5186522/tom-homan-border-czar-trump – What to know about Tom Homan, the former ICE head returning as Trump’s ‘border czar’
- https://washingtonstatestandard.com/2024/11/11/dc/trump-taps-former-acting-ice-director-as-his-new-border-czar/ – Trump taps former acting ICE director as his new ‘border czar’ • Washington State Standard
- https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2024/11/trump-makes-tom-homan-father-of-family-separation-in-charge-of-mass-deportation/ – Trump Puts the Father of Family Separation in Charge of Mass Deportation
- https://www.kbtx.com/2024/11/11/trump-announces-tom-homan-former-director-immigration-enforcement-will-serve-border-czar/ – Trump announces Tom Homan, former director of immigration enforcement, will serve as ‘border czar’
- https://www.americanimmigrationcouncil.org/research/mass-deportation – Mass Deportation: Devastating Costs to America, Its Budget and Economy
- https://www.cbsnews.com/news/tom-homan-trump-border-czar-what-to-know/ – What to know about Tom Homan, Trump’s new “border czar”
- https://apnews.com/article/trump-homan-ice-border-czar-7dea915b5ea43896390b8020d254f887 – Trump names Tom Homan, former director of immigration enforcement, as ‘border czar’
- https://www.cnbc.com/2024/11/11/trump-border-czar-congress-immigration-tom-homan.html – Trump’s ‘border czar’ could have more power, fewer hurdles on deportation policy
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/maryroeloffs/2024/11/11/what-to-know-about-trumps-new-border-czar-tom-homan/ – What To Know About Trump’s New ‘Border Czar’ Tom Homan
- https://www.foxnews.com/politics/what-know-about-thomas-homan-trumps-incoming-border-czar – What to know about Thomas Homan, Trump’s incoming ‘border czar’
- https://www.huffpost.com/entry/tom-homan-white-supremacist-event-border-czar-trump_n_67326794e4b07ebab74212ff – He Went To A White Supremacist Event. Now He’ll Oversee Trump’s Mass Deportations.
- https://www.heritage.org/immigration/heritage-explains/the-rancher-and-the-ice-director – The Rancher and the ICE Director
- https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/11/politics/trump-allies-project-2025/index.html – Trump claims not to know who is behind Project 2025. A CNN review found at least 140 people who worked for him are involved | CNN Politics
- https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/politics/who-wrote-project-2025-and-what-is-it-what-to-know-after-trumps-election-win/3596044/ – Who wrote Project 2025 and what is it? What to know after Trump’s election win
- https://idahocapitalsun.com/2024/11/11/dc/trump-taps-former-acting-ice-director-as-his-new-border-czar/ – Trump taps former acting ICE director as his new ‘border czar’ • Idaho Capital Sun
- https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/11/11/trump-announces-immigration-official-tom-homan-as-border-czar – Trump picks Tom Homan as ‘border czar’, Stephen Miller for top policy role
- https://nymag.com/intelligencer/article/what-does-trumps-border-czar-tom-homan-want-to-do.html – What Does Trump’s Hardline ‘Border Czar’ Want to Do?
- https://www.vox.com/politics/384320/trump-cabinet-white-house – The new (and familiar) faces staffing the second Trump administration
- https://www.telegraph.co.uk/us/politics/2024/11/11/tom-homan-donald-trump-border-immigration-czar/ – Who is Tom Homan? Trump’s pugnacious ‘border tsar’ who took on the Left
