At Landerholm Immigration, we believe immigrants deserve dignity, safety, and justice. But recent political statements have made it clear that some government officials are preparing to ramp up deportation efforts across the country—especially in so-called “sanctuary cities” like New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C.
In particular, former acting ICE director Tom Homan, who is advising Donald Trump on immigration matters, recently announced plans to “flood the zone” with ICE agents if Trump returns to power. He’s referring to deploying thousands of immigration officers to detain, arrest, and remove immigrants at a scale we haven’t seen since the peak of Trump’s first term.
Let’s break down what this means—and why every undocumented immigrant in the U.S. needs to stay alert and prepare.
ICE Enforcement Is Set to Increase—Even in “Sanctuary” Cities
Despite the protections offered by sanctuary policies, Homan made it clear in recent interviews that no place will be considered safe. He stated that over 1,000 ICE teams are preparing to operate nationwide, focusing on what they call "public safety threats"—but in practice, these sweeps often result in the detention of non-criminal immigrants, asylum seekers, and long-time community members with no criminal history.
According to Homan:
“There’s no safe haven for any illegal alien criminal or national security threat… And when we go to arrest one person, others around them who are also undocumented often get picked up too.”
In short, collateral arrests—where someone is detained simply for being present during an ICE operation—will likely increase. Even if you’ve never been arrested, even if you’ve lived in the U.S. for years without problems, you could be targeted.
What Does This Mean for Immigrants Living in the U.S.?
Homan’s statements, paired with aggressive past policies under Trump, suggest a future where ICE has even more freedom to operate in:
- Homes and apartment complexes
- Transit stations and subway stops
- Courthouses and shelters
- Schools, churches, and workplaces
He argues that sanctuary cities “protect criminals” by not cooperating with ICE—but in reality, those policies exist to protect immigrant families and build trust with local law enforcement.
His rhetoric frames nearly all undocumented immigrants as threats—even those with no criminal record. According to Homan, simply being in the country without authorization is a crime that justifies removal. He dismissed the idea that someone needs to commit another offense to be a deportation priority:
“Being in this country illegally is not okay. That’s a crime. That’s enough.”
This approach means broad enforcement, not limited to people with convictions. Families, asylum seekers, young immigrants, and people with old deportation orders may all be at risk.
What You Can Do Now to Protect Yourself
If you are undocumented or part of a mixed-status family, you should not panic—but you must prepare. Here are some concrete steps you can take now:
1. Know Your Rights
Everyone, regardless of status, has the right to remain silent. You do not have to open your door to ICE unless they have a judicial warrant. You do not have to speak to officers without a lawyer present.
2. Create a Safety Plan
Have a plan in place in case you or a loved one is detained. Make arrangements for childcare, housing, and finances.
3. Gather Your Documents
Organize your immigration documents and keep copies in a safe and accessible place. Include any receipts, notices, or pending applications.
4. Avoid Risky Areas
Public transit hubs, courthouse entrances, and known ICE checkpoints are higher-risk locations, especially under increased enforcement.
5. Speak With a Trusted Immigration Lawyer
Many people qualify for relief and don’t realize it. You may be eligible for:
- Asylum or withholding of removal
- U Visa or T Visa
- VAWA protections
- Cancellation of removal
- Adjustment of status through a family member
Our Take: Be Informed. Be Prepared. Don’t Wait.
At Landerholm Immigration, we’ve helped countless immigrants navigate hostile political climates. We know how frightening this news can be. But fear alone is not a strategy—being informed, prepared, and supported by an experienced legal team is.
If you or a loved one is at risk of deportation or has questions about your immigration status, now is the time to speak with an attorney.
The political winds may shift, but your future doesn’t have to be left to chance.