US President Donald Trump has deployed his border tsar Tom Homan to lead on-the-ground immigration enforcement in Minneapolis following the shooting deaths of two US citizens by federal agents within a month. Homan, who arrived in Minneapolis on Tuesday, will serve as the main point of contact with city officials in response to growing public concern regarding federal law enforcement actions.
Gregory Bovino, the current US border patrol chief and a visible figure for the Trump administration's mass deportation efforts, is set to depart from the city alongside some agents. At 64, Homan is recognized as both a close ally of Trump and an experienced figure in immigration policy, having served amid both Republican and Democratic administrations.
Homan has emerged as a strong advocate for Trump's immigration policies, especially in pushing for increased deportations, targeting what he calls the worst of the worst among undocumented migrants. His controversial tactics and support for policies that have increased tensions, such as family separations, have sparked criticism from immigration activists.
A native of upstate New York, Homan began his career in law enforcement and joined the Immigration and Naturalization Service in 1988, subsequently advancing through the ranks to now lead immigration enforcement efforts. His return to government service underscores the Trump administration's reliance on experienced figures amidst scrutiny over immigration enforcement methods.
In contrast to Homan's even-keeled public persona, Bovino has gained notoriety for aggressive tactics, including swift arrests that aim to avoid public protest interventions, earning backlash even from some Republicans. The transition from Bovino to Homan may suggest an acknowledgment by the White House of the need for a change in approach amid mounting pressure.
Despite appearances of a leadership change, experts indicate that the fundamental strategies of the administration will largely remain unchanged; Homan's history indicates a continued focus on deportation without significant modification towards undocumented individuals without criminal records.
Critics highlight that while Homan may communicate more polished messages to the public and stakeholders, his long-standing commitment to strict enforcement raises concerns that the humanitarian implications of immigration policy may not be prioritized under his guidance.
