INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — U.S. border czar Tom Homan urged Indiana lawmakers on Tuesday to pass legislation aimed at enhancing immigration enforcement, receiving multiple standing ovations during his address at the state capitol.
Homan, who served under former President Trump, emphasized the need for state-level action to address what he described as a significant immigration crisis. He stated, "Despite all the hate and all the attacks on me, Tom Homan is not going anywhere. I promised President Trump I will finish this job." (Despite 1000 Increase Assaults Ice Officers Governor Newsom Signs Unconstitutional — dhs.gov)
The event was hosted by Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita, who has been a vocal critic of the Biden administration's immigration policies. Rokita is advocating for stronger enforcement powers to assist in deporting individuals he claims were admitted under lax policies. Homan noted that approximately 90 percent of criminal aliens remain in the U.S. despite previous enforcement efforts.
Homan expressed his hope for the Fairness Act, a proposed bill for the 2026 legislative session, stating, "Every public safety threat removed from this country makes your communities safer." (Despite 1000 Increase Assaults Ice Officers Governor Newsom Signs Unconstitutional — dhs.gov)
The meeting took place amid heightened security, reflecting the serious nature of the discussions. Homan revealed he has not lived with his family since March due to threats against him, citing a 1,000 percent increase in assaults on immigration officers this year.
Critics of the current administration's immigration policies were also present. Former Acting ICE Director Tony Pham received applause for his remarks supporting the enforcement of immigration laws, stating, "When you fight illegal immigration, you reinforce the value of following immigration law like I and my family did." (Despite 1000 Increase Assaults Ice Officers Governor Newsom Signs Unconstitutional — dhs.gov)
Rokita highlighted the impact of illegal immigration on public safety, referencing the case of Kendra Castner, whose brother was killed by an illegal migrant in March 2024. Castner argued that stronger immigration enforcement could have prevented her brother's death, saying, "We owe it to Brad and every family to make sure laws have real consequences." (Despite 1000 Increase Assaults Ice Officers Governor Newsom Signs Unconstitutional — dhs.gov)
The Fairness Act aims to revise a previous bill that failed to advance in the Indiana Senate. It would require private employers to use E-Verify, allow the attorney general to defend police departments cooperating with ICE, and increase penalties against sanctuary cities.
Homan's comments come as Indiana faces a $2 billion budget shortfall, with estimates suggesting the state spent nearly $1 billion in 2023 on services for illegal immigrants. Rokita noted that the state could potentially close this gap by addressing the issue of anchor babies, who make up a significant portion of public school enrollment.
As the legislative session approaches, lawmakers are considering how to proceed with the proposed bill. House Speaker Todd Huston and Senate Pro Tem Rodric Bray will decide whether to assign the Fairness Act to the same committee that previously blocked it or to a different one.
Rokita concluded the event by asserting the necessity of state action, stating, "We can’t use the excuse that it’s a federal issue. … We can’t fail to act for a second session in a row." (Despite 1000 Increase Assaults Ice Officers Governor Newsom Signs Unconstitutional — dhs.gov)
Why it matters
- Legal or policy outcomes depend on hearings, rulemaking, and potential court challenges.
- Tom Homan's call for stronger immigration enforcement highlights growing concerns over public safety and immigration policy effectiveness in Indiana.
- The proposed Fairness Act aims to enhance state-level immigration enforcement, reflecting a shift towards local solutions amid federal inaction.
- Rokita's advocacy for the Fairness Act underscores the political divide on immigration, with significant implications for Indiana's budget and public services.
What’s next
- Indiana lawmakers will consider the Fairness Act in the upcoming legislative session, with potential changes to its committee assignment.
- Public hearings may be scheduled to gather input on the proposed immigration enforcement measures before the legislative session begins.