The White House's border czar, Tom Homan, has indicated that the administration is planning a more stringent response to the growing number of anti-ICE protests across the country. In a recent interview on Fox News’ “The Ingraham Angle,” Homan highlighted potential measures including the arrest, public identification, and prosecution of individuals whose demonstrations cross into unlawful territories, particularly those that obstruct federal immigration activities.
During his television appearance, Homan revealed plans for a new database that would feature the identities of protesters detained for disrupting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. "We’re going to create a database," Homan stated. "Those people that are arrested for interfering, impeding, and assault, we’re going to make them famous and put their face on TV." His rationale for this approach is to enforce accountability and deter individuals from repeat offenses.
While affirming the right to peaceful protest as protected by the First Amendment, Homan emphasized the administration's commitment to distinguishing between lawful demonstrations and actions that jeopardize the safety of officers. "You can protest, they have that right," Homan declared. "But when you cross that line … if you interfere or impede some ICE officer, you will be prosecuted."
Homan also aimed to correct what he perceives as misconceptions about ICE operations, fueled by negative media portrayals that have escalated hostilities towards federal agents. He underscored the fact that a significant majority of those arrested by ICE have criminal records and refuted claims of ICE targeting vulnerable populations or sensitive locations like schools and hospitals. According to Homan, enforcement actions are rooted in existing legal authorities and target individuals with criminal backgrounds.
The discourse surrounding immigration enforcement has become increasingly charged, particularly in Minnesota, where Governor Tim Walz (D) has encouraged citizens to document ICE agents' activities. This suggestion has been met with criticism from Homan, who views it as potentially leading to harassment of federal officers.
The tensions were further exacerbated following the fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good during an ICE operation in Minneapolis on January 7. The subsequent characterization of Good as a "domestic terrorist" by the Trump administration has been a point of contention with state and local officials. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has voiced his disapproval of ICE's presence in the city, citing the distress and disruption caused to residents.
Homan has expressed personal concerns, revealing an uptick in death threats against him and his family in light of the heated political dialogue. He had previously warned of the potential for violence stemming from such rhetoric, a prediction he regrets having come to fruition.
As protests persist, Homan indicated that the administration is considering further federal actions, including potentially invoking the Insurrection Act should state authorities fail to manage violent demonstrations. President Donald Trump has supported this stance, threatening action against "professional agitators and insurrectionists" on his Truth Social platform.
The administration's potential moves are designed to ensure that immigration enforcement is not hindered by intimidation or violence, according to Homan. As the situation develops, federal authorities remain poised to take additional steps to maintain order and uphold the law.
