People don’t like the 'execution': Marc Thiessen

Key Concepts

• Deportation Mandate: Public support for deporting illegal immigrants, particularly those with criminal records.
• Sanctuary Cities: Municipalities limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement (ICE).
• ICE Reform vs. Border Security: The debate surrounding reforming Immigration and Customs Enforcement versus maintaining strict border control measures.
• Execution of Policy: The importance of effective implementation of immigration policies to maintain public support.
• Federal vs. Local Law: The principle of federal law superseding local ordinances, particularly regarding immigration enforcement.

Public Support for Deportation and Concerns Regarding Policy Execution

The discussion centers on strong public support for deportations, particularly of illegal immigrants with criminal records. A Fox News poll indicates that while there is dissatisfaction with the execution of current immigration policies – specifically referencing the deaths of two Americans – this does not equate to a shift towards open borders. According to a New York Times poll from January, nine out of ten Americans favored deporting illegal immigrants with criminal records, and over six in ten supported deporting those who entered the country under the Biden administration. A 55% majority supported deporting all illegal immigrants, with the exception of those brought to the US as children under the DACA program. Mark Tissson emphasizes that Donald Trump possesses a “clear mandate” to pursue deportations, but cautions that this mandate can be jeopardized by “imperfect execution.” Tom Hman, referenced as being tasked with “general[ing] the troops,” acknowledges the need for improvement in policy implementation.

The Danger of Sanctuary City Policies

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the dangers posed by sanctuary city policies. The argument presented is that these policies directly contribute to tragic outcomes, citing the deaths of two Americans as a direct consequence. Lindsey Graham proposed linking any potential ICE reform with the passage of a bill ending sanctuary cities, making it a federal crime to not cooperate with ICE detainers. The core issue is that sanctuary cities, by refusing to allow ICE access to jails to detain criminals in custody, release these individuals back into the community. This necessitates ICE conducting more dangerous apprehensions “on the streets,” putting both ICE agents, the public, and the individuals themselves at risk. Tissson asserts that eliminating sanctuary city policies would resolve “90% of the problem.” The principle of federal law superseding local law is invoked, highlighting the legal basis for challenging these policies. Jacob Fry is mentioned as advocating for policies that contribute to the release of criminals.

Opposition to Compromise with "Open Borders Crowd"

There is a firm stance against any compromise with “Chuck Schumer and the open borders crowd.” The speakers believe that Democrats are misreading public sentiment and that the country does not support open borders or restrictions on ICE’s activities. The emphasis is on maintaining closed borders and continuing current laws. The discussion differentiates between improving the efficiency of ICE operations (“general[ing] the troops”) and fundamentally altering immigration laws or opening the border.

Importance of Effective ICE Operations & Mandate for Removal

The conversation highlights the importance of efficient ICE operations, framing Tom Hman as a key figure in improving this aspect. However, this operational improvement is presented as distinct from, and subordinate to, the overarching mandate for removing illegal immigrants. Tissson reiterates that President Trump has a clear mandate for deportation, supported by substantial public opinion data. He also references President Trump and Tom Hman both stating that nobody wants anyone to die, but emphasizes the connection between sanctuary city policies and the tragic deaths that occurred.

Concluding Remarks

The core takeaway is the strong public desire for stricter immigration enforcement, particularly regarding the deportation of individuals with criminal records. The speakers advocate for maintaining a firm stance against open border policies and emphasize the critical need to eliminate sanctuary city policies, which they believe directly endanger public safety. Effective execution of immigration laws is acknowledged as crucial for maintaining public support, but this is framed within the context of a pre-existing mandate for robust enforcement.