NewsCBS News PoliticsMay 5, 2026United States
Border Czar Tom Homan Discusses Future of Mass Deportation Strategy
Border czar Tom Homan acknowledged operational flaws during the 'Operation Metro Surge' in Minneapolis but confirmed that the administration remains committed to mass deportations. Homan stated that ICE is shifting toward more targeted arrests while maintaining that any individual in the country illegally remains subject to removal.
Read the full story at CBS News PoliticsWhy It Matters
The administration is adjusting its immigration enforcement tactics following the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens in Minneapolis, moving toward targeted operations while continuing to prioritize s in cities with .
Key Facts
- Tom Homan confirmed that approximately 800,000 deportations have occurred since President Trump returned to office.
- The administration is shifting from random immigration stops in public places to 'targeted' operations focusing on individuals with criminal records.
- Individuals in the country illegally without criminal records remain subject to arrest if encountered during operations.
- Operation Metro Surge in Minneapolis was scaled back following the fatal shootings of U.S. citizens Alex Pretti and Renee Good.
- Federal investigations into the deaths of Pretti and Good are ongoing.
- Homan stated that agents who violated the law or policy in the Minneapolis shootings should be held responsible, including potential termination.
- The administration plans to continue 'mass operations' specifically in cities with sanctuary policies.
- Gregory Bovino, the commander who led the Minneapolis sweeps, was relieved of his command and retired in March.
- Homan denied that the administration is backing down from its mass deportation promise, citing current arrest and removal numbers.
Who's Mentioned
personTom Homan“President Trump's border czar”personGregory Bovino“Retired Border Patrol Commander”personRenee Good“U.S. citizen fatally shot by federal immigration agents”organizationU.S. Customs and Border Protection“Federal agency responsible for border security”personTodd Lyons“Acting head of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement”personAlex Pretti“U.S. citizen fatally shot by federal immigration agents”organizationU.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement“Federal agency responsible for immigration enforcement”personDonald Trump“President of the United States”personMarkwayne Mullin“Homeland Security Secretary”