President-elect Donald Trump has doubled down on his promise to carry out widespread deportations of illegal immigrants, making it clear this week that his administration sees this as non-negotiable, regardless of any financial concerns. When pressed by NBC News on the cost of this plan, Trump didn’t mince words: it’s a necessary step, he said, for a country dealing with the aftermath of violence and drug crimes brought in by certain illegal entrants. As far as Trump is concerned, there’s “no price tag” on securing America’s borders and ridding the country of those who have no legal right to remain here.
Trump’s campaign set a goal of deporting approximately 11 million people, though he himself has speculated that the true number could be closer to 21 million. His stance has been firm: a powerful border isn’t about keeping everyone out, but about making sure those who enter do so legally. Trump stated he welcomes legal immigrants, but those here without authorization will be shown the door.
As expected, Trump’s approach has stirred opposition from Democrats and nonprofits like the American Immigration Council, which has predicted the plan could rack up a hefty $315 billion price tag. Yet Trump and his vice president-elect, JD Vance, counter that the economic gains would more than make up for it. In fact, during his debate with Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, Vance argued that mass deportation could help alleviate the housing crisis, claiming that illegal immigrants have been competing for homes, driving up rent and housing costs for American citizens. According to Vance, removing these unauthorized residents from the market could ease the strain on housing, making it more affordable for citizens.
Some economists disagree, suggesting that the housing problem stems from long-standing underbuilding and restrictive land-use regulations. But for Vance, the issue goes beyond economics. He points to the pressure illegal immigration places on schools, hospitals, and housing markets across the country, especially in areas far from the U.S.-Mexico border. Illegal immigrants, Vance contends, are overwhelming the infrastructure of communities that were not designed to handle such high populations. From classrooms bursting at the seams to emergency rooms stretched thin, he argues that these issues are rooted in unchecked immigration policies that prioritize noncitizens over American families.
Trump has also signaled his intention to invoke the Alien Enemies Act, a law from 1798 that empowers the president to expel noncitizens from nations with which the U.S. is at odds. If necessary, Trump has said, he’ll deploy the National Guard to carry out the task, especially in states governed by Republicans. Stephen Miller, one of Trump’s closest advisors, has suggested that Republican-controlled states might even send National Guard troops to nearby states unwilling to cooperate.
As for the logistics of such a massive undertaking, Vance has assured critics that it would be a phased approach, handled step by step rather than in a single sweep. Trump’s administration seems poised to follow through on this campaign promise with a resolve to make it a lasting part of his legacy.
