U.S. President Donald Trump has directed federal immigration authorities to intensify deportation operations in major Democratic-led cities, drawing widespread criticism from civil rights groups and local leaders who accuse him of weaponizing immigration enforcement for political gain.
In a fiery post on his Truth Social platform Sunday, Trump ordered Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to ramp up detentions and deportations in cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York, claiming, without evidence, that these urban centers harbor “millions upon millions of illegal aliens” and serve as “the core of the Democrat Power Center.”
Trump’s statement repeated widely debunked conspiracy theories alleging that undocumented immigrants vote in significant numbers in U.S. elections. “Nothing will stop us from executing our mission,” he declared. “ICE Officers are herewith ordered… to achieve the single largest Mass Deportation Program in history.”
The directive follows days of mass protests in Los Angeles, sparked by aggressive ICE raids in Latino neighborhoods. Although largely peaceful, the demonstrations have seen intermittent clashes, prompting Trump to deploy 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 U.S. Marines to the city — a move opposed by state and local officials.
California has filed a federal lawsuit seeking to regain control of its National Guard forces, arguing that Trump exceeded his constitutional authority. The case is currently pending in federal court.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass condemned the raids, describing them as “indiscriminate” and saying they have instilled fear among immigrant communities. “People are afraid to leave their homes,” she said on Sunday. “This is the United States. You are not supposed to have to show your papers just to be outside.”
The city remains under a nighttime curfew, which has now been extended amid ongoing tensions.
Trump also lashed out at Democratic politicians, accusing them of promoting “open borders” and “mass destruction migration,” while pledging full support to ICE, the FBI, DEA, and other federal agencies. “REAL Americans are cheering you on every day,” he wrote. “Now go, GET THE JOB DONE!”
Critics argue the president’s rhetoric and actions risk further inflaming divisions ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, while escalating fears among immigrant communities already living under increased scrutiny.
Written By Rodney Mbua
