Under Donald Trump, the U.S. government has hit an unprecedented milestone, averaging 1,435 deportations of undocumented immigrants each day over the past two weeks—a figure unparalleled in recent American history. According to the Department of Homeland Security, as reported by The Washington Times, more than 59,000 individuals are currently in ICE custody, with daily arrests averaging around 930.
This surge, driven by the so-called Big Beautiful Bill, which channels billions of dollars into immigration operations and expands detention capacity, could potentially lead to surpassing half a million deportations in a year, breaking the record set in 2012 during the Obama administration. In stark contrast, during the last weeks of the Biden administration in December and January, ICE arrests ranged from 215 to 300 per day, with deportations between 500 and 700.
Impact on Immigration System
Immigrant advocacy groups have criticized this massive increase in expulsions, highlighting a system overwhelmed by reports of wrongful deportations, deteriorating conditions in detention facilities, and a lack of fundamental procedural safeguards. "Fueled by a $45 billion funding, more individuals are detained for immigration reasons than at any time in U.S. history," stated the American Immigration Council on Friday.
"As the Trump administration ramps up detention capacity, concerns grow about an overburdened system leading to wrongful deportations, worsening detention conditions, and a lack of basic procedural guarantees," they informed The Washington Times. A federal judge recently mandated improvements at a New York facility where migrants were forced to sleep on the floor.
Focus on Interior Enforcement
The Trump administration's strategy has significantly reduced apprehensions at the Mexican border, allowing ICE to concentrate on interior enforcement. In early June, when Trump deployed ICE to Los Angeles, daily arrests peaked at nearly 1,200 immigrants, later dropping to around 850 per day in July, before rising again to over 900 between July 26 and August 9.
On August 9, among those detained, 36% had criminal convictions, 31% faced pending charges, and 33% were only recorded for immigration violations. By the end of the Biden administration, over 60% had criminal convictions, while less than 8% of detainees had only immigration violations.
Understanding the Surge in Deportations
What is the "Big Beautiful Bill"?
The "Big Beautiful Bill" refers to legislation that significantly boosts funding for immigration operations, enabling increased detention and deportation efforts under the Trump administration.
How has the Trump administration affected ICE's focus?
The Trump administration's policies have reduced border apprehensions, allowing ICE to redirect its focus towards interior enforcement, leading to increased arrests and deportations within the country.
What concerns have been raised about the increased deportations?
Advocacy groups have raised concerns about an overwhelmed system resulting in wrongful deportations, deteriorating detention conditions, and a lack of basic procedural safeguards for immigrants.