Tom Homan, the prospective “border czar” under a potential Trump administration, advocates for strict immigration enforcement and mass deportations, stirring controversy and raising concerns about accountability.
At a Glance
- Tom Homan, a former ICE director, has been appointed as the new “border czar” by President-elect Trump
- Homan supports strict immigration policies, including workplace enforcement and mandatory E-Verify
- He criticizes Democrat calls for amnesty, arguing it would encourage more illegal immigration
- Homan’s appointment raises concerns about congressional oversight and accountability
- Employers are advised to prepare for potential increased immigration enforcement
Tom Homan: The New “Border Czar”
President-elect Trump has appointed Tom Homan as the new “border czar,” signaling a renewed focus on strict immigration enforcement. Homan, with over 30 years of law enforcement experience, including roles as a Border Patrol agent and acting ICE director, is known for his hardline stance on immigration control.
The “border czar” position, while informal, wields significant power over border security and immigration policies without requiring Senate confirmation. This appointment has raised eyebrows among critics who fear a lack of congressional oversight.
Homan’s Stance on Immigration Enforcement
Homan’s approach to immigration is characterized by a commitment to strict enforcement and consequences for illegal entry. He was a key architect of the controversial “zero tolerance” policy during the previous Trump administration and led large-scale deportation efforts.
“I will run the biggest deportation operation this country’s ever seen,” Homan said.
Homan advocates for workplace enforcement targeting undocumented workers and businesses that hire them. He is also associated with the conservative “Project 2025” initiative, which supports strict immigration policies such as mandatory E-Verify.
Criticism of Amnesty and Calls for Consequences
In a recent appearance on “Jesse Watters Primetime,” Homan criticized Democrat calls for amnesty, arguing that such measures would only encourage more illegal immigration. He emphasized the need for consequences to deter illegal border crossings and maintain the integrity of the immigration system.
“It’s ridiculous, you’re going to reward illegal behavior. If you reward amnesty, you’re never going to fix the border. This country is showing over and over again that if you don’t have consequences, they’re going to keep coming,” Homan said.
Homan argues that removal orders must be executed to maintain the effectiveness of immigration courts and Border Patrol operations. He contends that without enforcement, the entire immigration system would become ineffective.
Concerns Over Accountability and Oversight
The appointment of Homan as “border czar” has raised concerns about accountability and congressional oversight. Unlike Cabinet secretaries, White House appointees like Homan are subject to less scrutiny and can more easily invoke executive privilege.
Critics, including the ACLU, expect Homan’s appointment to have significant anti-asylum and anti-immigrant implications. The practical influence of White House staffers like Homan can be substantial, as demonstrated by Stephen Miller during Trump’s first term.
Implications for Employers
With Homan’s appointment, employers should prepare for potential increased immigration enforcement. Key steps include understanding immigration violation risks, establishing I-9 compliance, conducting regular audits, using E-Verify, and having a rapid response plan for potential ICE audits or raids.
Employers are advised to train managers to handle employee concerns neutrally and to check collective bargaining agreements for immigration-related provisions. As the immigration landscape potentially shifts under Homan’s leadership, businesses must stay vigilant and compliant to avoid potential legal issues.
