President-elect Donald Trump’s incoming border czar, Tom Homan, delivered a blunt message to Democratic mayors who obstruct federal immigration enforcement, leaving CNN host Kasie Hunt momentarily speechless during a recent segment.
Homan, a veteran of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during Trump’s first term, addressed statements made by Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, who vowed to resist federal immigration authorities. Johnston had previously compared such actions to the defiance shown during Tiananmen Square protests, even suggesting Denver police could block ICE from entering the city.
Kasie Hunt aired two clips: one featuring Johnston’s bold pledge, and another of Homan appearing on Fox News with Sean Hannity. In the latter, Homan made it clear that any official attempting to impede federal law enforcement would face legal consequences.
“But look, me and the Denver mayor agree on one thing. He’s willing to go to jail. I’m willing to put him in jail,” Homan declared unapologetically. “There’s a statute, Title 8, United States Code 1324, which states it’s a felony to knowingly harbor or conceal illegal aliens from immigration authorities. It’s also a felony to impede a federal law enforcement officer.”
Homan added, “If you don’t want to help, that’s fine. He can get the hell out of the way, but we’re going to do the job. President Trump has a mandate from the American people to secure this country and save American lives.”
Hunt, visibly taken aback, could only respond with a surprised “Ooof!”
Johnston is one of several progressive mayors publicly opposing Homan’s plans. Earlier this month, Boston Mayor Michelle Wu faced criticism for promising to limit federal authorities’ access to city resources during immigration enforcement actions. Wu argued that such efforts cause “widespread fear” and hurt the local economy, emphasizing her city’s 2014 ordinance limiting cooperation on civil immigration cases.
Homan expressed his disbelief during his interview with Hannity. “I find it shocking that any mayor would say they don’t want public safety threats removed from their neighborhoods,” he said. “I don’t know what the hell is going on in Denver, but we’re going to fix it. If [the mayor] doesn’t want to protect his community, President Trump and ICE will.”
When Hannity pressed him about enforcement plans in states like Colorado, Illinois, New York, and California, Homan was resolute. “We’re going to enforce the law, period, and they’re not going to stop us,” he stated.
In addition to Homan’s appointment, Trump has nominated South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem as his Secretary of Homeland Security. Known for her staunch support of border security, Noem has frequently aligned with Trump’s views on immigration.
Noem previously labeled the Biden administration’s handling of the border crisis as an “invasion” and took proactive measures to address the issue. In 2021, she made South Dakota the first state to send National Guard troops to the U.S.-Mexico border to assist Texas. Since then, Noem has deployed troops to the border eight times, demonstrating her commitment to stricter immigration policies.
As Homeland Security secretary, Noem is expected to continue advocating for stronger physical barriers and enhanced screening processes at the border. Her selection reflects Trump’s determination to prioritize national security and fulfill campaign promises regarding immigration.
Homan’s no-nonsense approach and Noem’s track record suggest a significant shift in immigration enforcement under Trump’s upcoming administration. Critics argue that such policies will create fear and economic instability in immigrant communities, while supporters believe they are essential for public safety and upholding the rule of law.
With tensions already high, the clash between federal authorities and sanctuary cities is likely to intensify in the coming months. For Homan, the mission is clear: “We have a job to do, and we won’t let anyone stand in our way.”
Whether his strategy will succeed in curbing illegal immigration or provoke further legal battles remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain—Homan’s unflinching stance has set the tone for the next chapter in America’s immigration debate.
WATCH:
CNN reacting to Tom Homan pic.twitter.com/THY8yFN4v7
— Dr. Richard Harambe (@Richard_Harambe) November 27, 2024
