Tom Homan, who was appointed "border czar" by U.S. President Donald Trump, gestures as he speaks to the media outside the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., January 14, 2026. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein
(Washington, DC) – Border Czar Tom Homan aligned with President Donald Trump and said the administration’s border enforcement policies have sharply reduced illegal crossings and helped prevent crime, exploitation, and loss of life.
Citing a reported 96% decline in illegal border crossings, the official argued that fewer migrants attempting the journey has reduced instances of sexual assault, human trafficking, and deaths along migration routes. The remarks also claimed that stricter enforcement has limited the ability of individuals flagged as potential security threats to enter the United States unlawfully.
The statements come as immigration remains a central issue in national political debate, with supporters of tougher border controls praising enforcement efforts and critics raising concerns about humanitarian impacts and asylum access.
The administration has not released additional data alongside the remarks, and immigration policy continues to face legal and political scrutiny.
