WASHINGTON − President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Tom Homan, a former Border Patrol agent who became the head of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), as his new “border czar”, responsible for overseeing the mass deportations he pledged during his campaign.

During Trump’s first term, Homan was known for his strict enforcement of border security and implemented a “zero tolerance” policy that resulted in the separation of migrant families. He was a prominent supporter of Trump during the campaign, advocating for stronger border security measures.

The title of “border czar” is not an official role within the Department of Homeland Security, leaving uncertainty about Homan’s specific responsibilities. Nonetheless, this announcement marked one of Trump’s initial assignments during his transition period, highlighting his emphasis on border security.

Here’s what we know about Homan:

Homan was the first Border Patrol agent to lead ICE

Homan dedicated 34 years to the Border Patrol before becoming acting director of ICE for the first two years of Trump’s presidency. He was the first frontline agent to head the agency responsible for immigration enforcement.

At the Republican National Convention in July, Homan noted that he served under six different presidents from both political parties, starting with Ronald Reagan. He stated that while all previous presidents promised to enhance border security, Trump was the only one who delivered on that promise.

“Guess what? He’s going to do it again,” Homan asserted.

Statistical data from DHS indicates that deportations were higher during the Obama administration compared to Trump’s. Obama averaged over 382,000 deportations annually for a total of nearly 3.1 million during his presidency, whereas Trump averaged 300,000 per year, totaling about 1.2 million.

Nevertheless, Trump implemented policies requiring migrants to stay in Mexico while applying for asylum and used a health statute to restrict migration during the COVID-19 pandemic.

What does it mean to be a ‘border czar’ for Homan?

Trump described Homan’s role as “border czar”, putting him in charge of security at the southern and northern borders, as well as overseeing maritime and aviation security.

The responsibilities related to these areas typically fall under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). However, Trump did not appoint Homan as the head of that department, leaving some ambiguity about his actual duties.

“I’ve known Tom for a long time, and there is no one better at controlling our borders,” Trump stated on Truth Social. “Additionally, Tom Homan will be in charge of deporting illegal immigrants back to their home countries.”

Workplace raids might be used to find migrants

Trump had promised to initiate mass deportations starting the first day of his presidency. He plans to mobilize federal agencies to track down the estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S.

Vice President-elect JD Vance mentioned that the administration might aim to remove around 1 million individuals each year.

However, immigrant advocacy organizations have cautioned that large-scale deportations could negatively impact labor markets in sectors like agriculture and hospitality. Finding immigrants may entail law enforcement visiting their residences or conducting business raids.

“We will prioritize public safety and national security threats,” Homan informed Fox News. “These individuals pose the greatest risk to our nation.”

“We must conduct worksite operations,” Homan noted.

Potential for Conflict Over Mass Deportations

Some areas have enacted laws to shield migrants from the enforcement of federal immigration regulations, referring to these as “sanctuary cities.” After the election of Trump, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker and New York City’s immigrant affairs commissioner, Manuel Castro, both stated their intent to protect migrants.

However, Homan suggested that the federal government would pursue cooperation from state and local police entities.

“We will carry out our responsibilities whether you cooperate or not,” Homan remarked.

Homan’s Professional Background

Homan has a diverse background, having worked as a police officer in New York, a Border Patrol agent, and a special agent with the former U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service. He also held positions as a supervisory special agent and deputy assistant director for investigations within ICE.

Chad Wolf, former acting secretary of homeland security, expressed admiration for Homan on social media, stating, “I witnessed Tom’s leadership and expertise in border security and immigration enforcement firsthand. I am confident he will do everything possible to secure the border and protect our communities.”

In Texas, he ascended to the role of ICE’s assistant director for investigations in both the San Antonio and Dallas districts, later taking on significant leadership roles in ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Office.

Homan holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and was honored with the Presidential Rank Award in 2015 for his contributions to immigration enforcement.

(This article has been updated with further information.)