ICE Arrest Numbers Drop to 600 Daily

THE NEWS

Since taking office, President Donald Trump has orchestrated a full-scale illegal immigration crackdown, mobilizing agencies from the FBI to the Defense Department.

Illegal immigrants have been flown to distant countries on military transport planes, and even Guantánamo Bay Naval Base is housing detainees. Despite an initial flurry of ICE arrests, daily apprehension numbers have dropped from about 800 to fewer than 600, far short of the administration’s goal of 1,200 to 1,500.

Tensions are mounting as officials clash over budgets, manpower, and detention space — underscored by abrupt leadership changes at ICE and a $175 billion Senate proposal to bolster enforcement.

TIMELINE

• Pre-Inauguration 2024–2025: ICE compiles target lists of deportable immigrants, anticipating a sweeping offensive.

• Late January 2025: Trump declares a national emergency at the southern border; ICE arrests surge to 1,179 in a single day.

• Early February 2025: Daily ICE arrests dip below 600; the administration halts daily data releases, opting for monthly reports.

• This Week:
  

• DHS Secretary Kristi L. Noem removes ICE’s top two enforcement officials, citing “lack of results.”

• Trump’s border czar Tom Homan complains of insufficient funds, while congressional Republicans propose $175 billion to expand detention and enforcement.

• White House urges shifting focus to the military-led border campaign as arrests lag.

REACTIONS

• President Donald Trump: Insists the crackdown must intensify, demanding deportations “in the millions.” Credits the drop in illegal entries to his hardline approach.

• Tom Homan (Border Czar): Expresses frustration over ICE’s budget constraints and detainee releases; warns the agency needs more staffing, bed space, and resources.

• Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.): Emphasizes need for an additional $175 billion to hire agents, pay bonuses, and expand detention centers.

• Critics (Jason Houser, ex-ICE Chief of Staff): Decry the crackdown as a “show,” claiming federal agents trained for other missions are now arresting “noncriminals.”

• Local Sheriffs: Support stepped-up enforcement but warn that insufficient funding and overcrowded jails undermine large-scale deportation efforts.

WHAT'S NEXT

The Trump administration is seeking US$175 billion from Congress to use for the next four years on immigration enforcement.