The Trump administration stood firm on its strict immigration policies during a contentious congressional hearing on Thursday. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem faced sharp questioning from Democratic lawmakers, alongside protests both inside and outside the hearing room.
According to the Associated Press (AP), Noem defended the increase in raids, deportations, and immigration restrictions, claiming that the United States faces "a real threat" from the presence of undocumented individuals.
"What keeps me up at night is not knowing who is inside this country and what their intentions might be," Noem declared during the House Homeland Security Committee session.
Political Clash Over National Security
The hearing, intended to evaluate national security threats, quickly morphed into a political showdown between Republicans and Democrats. Trump's supporters praised Noem for "keeping the country safe," while the opposition accused her of abusing power and violating human rights in the enforcement of immigration policies.
Democratic Congressman Bennie Thompson from Mississippi criticized the use of extensive public resources to pursue "an extreme agenda" and called for Noem's resignation. "Do a real service to the country and step down," he demanded.
Protests and Controversy
Protests erupted several times during the session with chants of "Shame on you!" directed at the secretary, who left the room under escort after the first part of the hearing held behind closed doors.
Since returning to power in January, Trump has made immigration a cornerstone of his renewed mandate, promising mass deportations, expansion of the border wall with Mexico, and a significant increase in border control personnel.
The AP highlighted that under the new administration, the number of detainees in immigration centers has soared, with deportations including individuals sent to countries where they weren't born. The White House claims these measures are designed to "protect the nation's security" and "restore border legality."
Legal Challenges and Divisions
During the hearing, Democrats also questioned the recent case of Kilmar Abrego García, a migrant mistakenly deported to El Salvador, whose release was ordered by a federal judge while Noem testified before Congress.
Without addressing this specific incident, Noem reiterated that "the United States is restoring immigration order and ending years of border negligence."
The Committee concluded the session without concrete resolutions, leaving behind fresh political divisions over the scope and legality of the administration's immigration initiatives.
FAQs on U.S. Immigration Policies
What are the main criticisms of the Trump administration's immigration policies?
Critics argue that the policies involve abuse of power, human rights violations, and misuse of public resources to pursue an extreme agenda.
How has the number of detainees changed under the new administration?
The number of detainees in immigration centers has significantly increased under the Trump administration.
What was the outcome of the congressional hearing on immigration policies?
The hearing ended without concrete resolutions, but it highlighted new political divisions over the legality and scope of immigration measures.