In just under two weeks, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has been inundated with over 100,000 applications from individuals eager to join their ranks in an effort to "remove the worst criminals" from the country, according to a statement released on Tuesday by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This announcement was shared on the agency's official account and was endorsed by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, emphasizing the response to President Donald Trump's call for "patriots ready to defend the homeland" amid a dramatic 1000% surge in assaults against ICE agents.
However, there are significant concerns from critics who argue that these recruitment efforts could exacerbate xenophobia and racial profiling, particularly during a time of heightened actions against immigrants. "This is a defining moment in our nation's history. Your skills, experience, and courage have never been more critical. Together, we must protect our country," Noem proclaimed, urging individuals to apply via JOIN.ICE.GOV.
New Recruitment Incentives and Concerns
To expand the pool of candidates, ICE has removed age restrictions for applicants and unveiled an enticing benefits package. This includes a signing bonus of up to $50,000, student loan repayment and forgiveness options, a 25% pay increase for HSI special agents, uncontrolled overtime for ERO deportation officers, and enhanced retirement benefits. All candidates must pass medical exams, drug tests, and physical fitness assessments before joining.
This initiative is part of President Donald Trump’s new immigration policies and ICE's recent national campaign inviting citizens to assist in the identification and deportation of undocumented immigrants with criminal backgrounds.
Backlash from Migrant Rights Groups
The campaign, promoted with the slogan "AMERICA NEEDS YOU," has faced backlash from migrant rights organizations, who caution against a potential rise in xenophobia and racial profiling. "We are witnessing instances where ICE fails to differentiate between individuals with criminal convictions and workers who have been in this country for years without any legal issues," warned Maricela López, spokesperson for Raíces Unidas in Texas. According to the DHS, more than 180,000 deportations were reported in the first half of 2025, a 22% increase compared to the same period the previous year. Although many involve individuals with serious convictions, there have also been expulsions of migrants without criminal records.
This wave of mass recruitment signifies a pivotal shift in the strategy of Trump and Noem, who have placed the deportation of irregular immigrants at the forefront of their national security agenda.
Questions About ICE Recruitment and Policies
Why has ICE eliminated age restrictions for applicants?
ICE removed age restrictions to broaden their pool of candidates and attract more applicants to support their initiatives.
What are the concerns regarding ICE's recruitment drive?
Critics warn that the recruitment drive could lead to increased xenophobia and racial profiling, particularly against immigrants.
What benefits are being offered to new ICE recruits?
New recruits are offered benefits such as a signing bonus, student loan forgiveness, increased pay for special agents, and enhanced retirement benefits.