Red States Need To Require All Police To Help Deport Illegals

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) recently arrested more than 1,500 illegal aliens, including sexual predators and fugitives, in Texas during a 10-day period, the agency announced on Nov. 5. This operation highlights the ongoing challenges of border security and deportation efforts, which many argue are still insufficient.

Texas has enacted a new law requiring nearly all county sheriffs to request entry into the federal 287(g) program, which allows local law enforcement to partner directly with ICE to identify, detain, and remove illegal aliens. This program has been successfully implemented in Florida and is seen as a way to enhance local enforcement capabilities. As of November, 58 agencies in Texas are operating under the 287(g) Task Force Model agreement, including four state agencies, 39 sheriffs’ departments, and 15 municipalities.

The legislation mandating county sheriff departments to formally request entry into 287(g) agreements takes effect on Jan. 1. Proponents argue that this is a necessary step toward full cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. They suggest that the mandate should also extend to municipal police departments and constables, emphasizing that local officers are best positioned to understand and address community safety concerns.

Recently, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) signed on to a 287(g) agreement with the Department of Homeland Security, marking a significant move toward enhancing public safety. Advocates assert that illegal immigration has strained Texas communities, law enforcement agencies, and the economy. By joining the 287(g) program, DPS aims to reinforce the message that Texas will not serve as a sanctuary for individuals who violate immigration laws.

While some jurisdictions, particularly in blue states, have resisted federal immigration enforcement, advocates for stricter enforcement in red states like Texas, Florida, Oklahoma, and Tennessee argue that they must maintain a high standard of compliance with federal immigration policies. They contend that grassroots organizations and community leaders should hold local officials accountable for joining programs like the Operation Lone Star Task Force, which has over 60 participating agencies and represents a collaborative approach to law enforcement.

Recent ICE arrests in the Houston area included individuals with serious criminal backgrounds, such as a previously deported child predator and gang member. Advocates argue that these enforcement actions are crucial for protecting communities and countering claims that immigration enforcement is unlawful or discriminatory.

Texas has positioned itself as a leader in immigration enforcement, particularly in areas where federal action has been perceived as lacking. The expansion of the 287(g) framework and the implementation of new state laws signal a moment of alignment between state and federal priorities. Proponents believe that the necessary tools, authority, and political will are in place for effective enforcement.

They call on every law enforcement agency in Texas and other red states to participate in the 287(g) program, asserting that this will help secure the interior of the states by removing individuals who lack lawful status. The focus is on ensuring that communities in conservative states remain safe and sovereign.

Selene Rodriguez, a campaign director for the Secure and Sovereign Nation campaign at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, emphasizes the importance of this initiative in addressing the challenges posed by illegal immigration.