President-elect Donald Trump reaffirmed his hardline stance on immigration in an NBC News interview, emphasizing mass deportations and plans to end birthright citizenship. Speaking on Meet the Press with Kristen Welker, Trump declared his intention to deport all undocumented immigrants over his four-year term, citing existing rules and laws.
Trump also expressed a willingness to negotiate protections for “Dreamer” immigrants—individuals brought to the U.S. as children—stating that Republicans are open to crafting a deal. Despite his previous efforts to dismantle the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program during his first term, Trump now appears ready to explore bipartisan solutions.
On day one of his presidency, Trump plans to take executive action to end birthright citizenship, a move likely to face significant legal hurdles. The right to citizenship for those born on U.S. soil, regardless of parental status, is enshrined in the 14th Amendment and backed by an 1898 Supreme Court ruling. Trump suggested pursuing a constitutional amendment if necessary, acknowledging the challenge of such a process.
Trump’s incoming administration, led by border czar Tom Homan and deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, is calling for a substantial increase in funding for immigration enforcement. Homan highlighted that deporting all undocumented immigrants could cost up to $88 billion annually.
The Department of Homeland Security estimates 11 million undocumented immigrants reside in the U.S., with the actual number likely higher. Trump is expected to declare illegal immigration a national emergency upon taking office on January 20, intensifying his crackdown.
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