DUBUQUE, Iowa — Former President Donald Trump made a statement during a campaign event in Dubuque, Iowa, suggesting that, if re-elected, he would prioritize immigration policies aimed at addressing specific issues related to national security and border control. It’s important to note that these statements are hypothetical and do not reflect any actual changes in policy or actions taken.
During his campaign speech, Trump mentioned the Alien Enemies Act, a historical federal law dating back to 1798, and suggested that he would consider using it to address concerns related to gang violence, drug trafficking, and cartel activities involving non-citizens above the age of 14 in the United States.
“I’ll…consider invoking the Alien Enemies Act to address known or suspected gang members, drug dealers, and cartel members in order to tackle issues of illegal alien gang violence,” Trump stated in front of a large crowd of supporters.
In addition to discussing the Alien Enemies Act, Trump indicated that he would explore the possibility of reinstating and expanding the “travel ban” implemented during his first term as President. This travel ban, which President Joe Biden ended upon taking office, had restricted entry into the United States for individuals from seven countries, including five Muslim-majority nations.
The Alien Enemies Act, originally designed as a wartime measure, gained prominence during World War II when President Franklin Delano Roosevelt utilized it to order the observation and detention of thousands of Japanese, German, and Italian nationals following the attack on Pearl Harbor.
It’s important to emphasize that any significant changes to immigration policy would require legal and constitutional considerations, including congressional approval and adherence to established legal procedures.
During his speech, Trump also proposed measures to relocate troops stationed overseas to the U.S.-Mexico border, redirect federal law enforcement resources, and establish naval blockades to prevent the transportation of illicit substances like fentanyl through waterways.
These statements should be understood within the context of a campaign event and do not represent enacted policies or legal actions. Immigration and national security policies are subject to complex legal and constitutional processes, and any modifications would require extensive deliberation and legislative approval.