Tom Homan, often referred to as the "border czar" and the key architect of the White House's immigration policy, announced a new phase of mass deportations in the United States on Tuesday. His announcement came during the Border Security Expo held in Phoenix, Arizona.
Addressing an audience of security officials and experts, Homan strongly reiterated the Trump administration's strategy while sharply dismissing the criticism from certain MAGA factions who believe the deportations have been insufficient.
"To those who claim President Trump is weakening on mass deportations, they have no clue what they're talking about. They haven't seen anything yet," warned Homan, labeling his critics as "keyboard warriors."
Homan was even more forthright in predicting what lies ahead: "Mass deportations are on the way. This will be a significant year."
New Tactics and Priorities
The official detailed that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) plans to conduct more targeted operations following controversies from previous efforts in cities like Chicago, Minneapolis, and Los Angeles, where raids sparked protests and violent incidents.
Although he emphasized that the focus is on individuals deemed public safety threats and criminals, Homan acknowledged that between 35% and 40% of those detained by ICE have no criminal records, justifying these actions as a global deterrent measure.
Increased ICE Presence
The "border czar" also threatened to increase the presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in states that limit cooperation with federal authorities.
"What's going to happen in places like New York where people pass ridiculous legislation to not collaborate with us? We're going to flood the area. You'll see more ICE agents than ever," he asserted.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul quickly responded: "The only thing I'll say to Mr. Homan is that Donald Trump himself said he wouldn't send a large number of ICE agents to New York unless I asked for it. And I'm not asking."
Pressure from MAGA Hardliners
Homan's statements come amid increasing pressure from the hardline wing of the MAGA movement, which on March 30 proposed a 21-point plan demanding the deportation of at least one million people.
Since January 2025, ICE has recorded over 160,000 arrests of individuals with criminal convictions or pending charges, with public arrests increasing by 1,000% during Trump's second term's first year.
Impact on the Cuban Community
The Cuban community has felt the impact acutely, with ICE detentions of Cubans rising 463% between the end of 2024 and the end of 2025. At least four direct deportation flights to Havana have transported 530 repatriates so far in 2026.
The Trump administration aims to deport one million people during the current and next fiscal year and has acquired 11 warehouses nationwide to expand detention capacity to 100,000 beds, investing $45 billion in the process.
Understanding the New Immigration Crackdown
What is Tom Homan's role in the U.S. immigration policy?
Tom Homan is known as the "border czar" and is a primary figure in shaping the White House's immigration policy.
How has the ICE increased its activities under Trump's administration?
During Trump's second term's first year, public arrests by ICE increased by 1,000%, highlighting a significant escalation in enforcement activities.
What is the impact on the Cuban community?
The Cuban community has seen a 463% rise in ICE detentions between late 2024 and late 2025, with multiple deportation flights to Havana.