Podcasts > Shawn Ryan Show > #200 Tom Homan - The U.S. Border Czar

#200 Tom Homan - The U.S. Border Czar

By Shawn Ryan Show

In this Shawn Ryan Show episode, former ICE Director Tom Homan shares his career journey in law enforcement, from starting as a Border Patrol agent in 1984 to becoming the first ICE Director to rise from the ground up. He discusses his role as "border czar" during the Trump administration, detailing immigration policies like the "Remain in Mexico" program and the "Third Safe Country Agreement."

Homan examines differences between the Trump and Biden administrations' approaches to border security, including policy changes and their effects on illegal border crossings. He also addresses current challenges at the southern border, drawing from his experience to discuss issues such as cartel operations, human trafficking, and the tracking of individuals crossing the border without detection.

#200 Tom Homan - The U.S. Border Czar

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#200 Tom Homan - The U.S. Border Czar

1-Page Summary

Homan's Career Path and Law Enforcement Experience

Tom Homan, raised in a patriotic, Catholic community in West Carthage, New York, followed his father's and grandfather's footsteps into law enforcement. Starting as a Border Patrol agent in 1984, Homan worked his way through various positions, including special agent criminal investigator, focusing on immigration-related crimes. He eventually became the first ICE Director to rise from the ground up, maintaining strong connections with field agents and never forgetting his roots.

Trump Administration's Border Security and Immigration Policies

As "border czar" under President Trump, Homan implemented comprehensive immigration policies, including the "Remain in Mexico" program and the "Third Safe Country Agreement." According to Homan, these initiatives, combined with a "whole-of-government" approach involving multiple agencies, significantly reduced illegal border crossings. He notes that under Trump's leadership, only nine individuals were released from the border in the first hundred days, primarily for humanitarian reasons or as material witnesses.

Impacts of Biden's Border Security and Immigration Policies

Homan criticizes the Biden administration's reversal of Trump-era policies, suggesting these changes have led to unprecedented illegal border crossings from 181 countries. He expresses concern over what he describes as ineffective "legal pathways" like the CBP1 app and CHNV program, which he argues serve more as alternative entry methods than genuine legal solutions.

Challenges With Cartels, Human Trafficking, and Border Security

Drawing from his firsthand experience, Homan describes severe challenges at the southern border, including cartel violence and human trafficking. He points to troubling incidents, such as the death of 19 people in a tractor-trailer and cases of sexual assault against migrants. Under the Biden administration, Homan claims there have been over 2.2 million "gotaways," raising concerns about potential security threats, including individuals from terrorist watch lists entering the country undetected.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The "Remain in Mexico" program, officially known as the Migrant Protection Protocols, was an immigration policy implemented by the Trump administration in 2019. It required asylum seekers to stay in Mexico while awaiting their immigration court dates in the United States. The policy faced legal challenges and was eventually ended by the Biden administration, although there were subsequent legal battles over its termination.
  • The "Third Safe Country Agreement" is a policy where asylum seekers must seek protection in the first safe country they reach before applying in another country. This agreement aims to prevent multiple asylum claims in different countries and manage the flow of asylum seekers more effectively. It is designed to ensure that individuals do not engage in "asylum shopping" by moving between countries to seek the most favorable asylum conditions. The agreement is part of efforts to establish a structured and coordinated approach to asylum and refugee protection.
  • "Gotaways" is a term used in border security to describe individuals who evade detection by law enforcement agencies and successfully enter a country without being apprehended. These individuals manage to escape detection despite efforts to secure the border, posing challenges for authorities in monitoring and controlling illegal crossings. The term typically applies to those who avoid detection during attempted border crossings, highlighting gaps in border security measures. The concept of "gotaways" underscores the complexity and difficulties faced in effectively securing borders and preventing unauthorized entries.

Counterarguments

  • Homan's perspective on the effectiveness of Trump-era policies may not account for the broader humanitarian implications and criticisms regarding the treatment of asylum seekers and refugees.
  • The "Remain in Mexico" program and the "Third Safe Country Agreement" have been challenged by human rights organizations for potentially violating international asylum laws and putting vulnerable populations at risk.
  • The reduction in illegal border crossings under the Trump administration could be attributed to factors beyond policy changes, such as fluctuating migration patterns or economic conditions in home countries.
  • The claim that only nine individuals were released from the border in the first hundred days of Trump's presidency may not reflect the full scope of border enforcement actions, including family separations and detentions.
  • The increase in illegal border crossings under the Biden administration could be influenced by a range of factors, including underlying push factors in home countries, like violence and poverty, rather than policy changes alone.
  • The Biden administration's "legal pathways" initiatives may be part of a broader strategy to manage immigration in a more humane and orderly way, despite criticisms of their effectiveness.
  • The issues of cartel violence and human trafficking are complex and may require comprehensive, multi-faceted strategies that address root causes in addition to border security measures.
  • The term "gotaways" may not accurately represent the nuances of border crossings, as it could include individuals who later seek asylum or have legitimate reasons for entry.
  • Concerns about individuals from terrorist watch lists entering the country need to be balanced with data on the actual prevalence of such cases and the effectiveness of existing security measures.

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#200 Tom Homan - The U.S. Border Czar

Homan's Career Path and Law Enforcement Experience

Tom Homan has followed a career in law enforcement from a young age, inspired by his father and grandfather. His rise through the ranks to become the first ICE Director to have started from the ground up is a testament to his dedication and understanding of law enforcement.

Homan Grew Up In a Patriotic Upstate New York Town With a Catholic Family Background

Homan describes his upbringing in West Carthage, New York, as one framed by a patriotic and Catholic environment. In a town with a population of about 2,500, Homan grew up in a strong community where "it takes a village to grow a kid." With a family of seven children, his upbringing was characterized by discipline and respect for the law, influenced by his father's role as a judge. He grew up in an area near Fort Drum where police were highly respected and where love for the country was a common sentiment, with American flags adorning many porches.

Homan Aspired To a Law Enforcement Career Like His Father and Grandfather

From around kindergarten, Homan knew he wanted a career in law enforcement, mirroring his father's and grandfather's paths. His father, a World War II gunfire survivor, also served as a police officer before becoming a judge, and this exposure to the dignified uniform had a profound impact on him. Like the rest of his family, who chose public service careers, Homan wanted to give back to his community.

In 1984, Homan started his career as a Border Patrol agent after a conversation with a Border Patrol agent while fishing. He spent significant time on the southern border, later joining a squad that dealt with bandits attacking people crossing into the U.S. Homan then moved to becoming a criminal investigator focusing on immigration-related crimes.

Homan's Career: Phoenix to San Antonio

Homan's career took him from Campo, California, to Phoenix, Arizona, in 1988, where he spent ten years investigating crimes such as alien smuggling, immigration fraud, and work site enforcement. From Phoenix, he advanced his career in San Antonio as the head of the office, ultimately making his way to ICE Director.

Homan, the First Ice Director to Rise From the Bott ...

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Homan's Career Path and Law Enforcement Experience

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • ICE stands for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a federal agency under the Department of Homeland Security responsible for enforcing immigration laws within the United States. The ICE Director is the head of this agency, overseeing its operations related to immigration enforcement, border security, and investigating criminal activities such as human trafficking and smuggling. The director is a key figure in shaping and implementing policies regarding immigration enforcement and national security. Tom Homan, mentioned in the text, was a notable figure who served as the ICE Director and had a background in law enforcement before leading the agency.
  • Fort Drum is a U.S. Army military base located in northern New York. It is home to the 10th Mountain Division and covers a vast area of land. The base plays a crucial role in training and supporting military personnel, with a focus on cold-weather operations. The history of Fort Drum dates back to the early 20th century when it was established as a military training site known as Pine Camp.
  • Campo, California is an unincorporated community in southeastern San Diego County, known for its historical significance and rural setting. It is part of the Mountain Empire area and includes settlements like Cameron Corners and Morena Village. The area has a rich history dating back to the 19th century, including notable events like the Gaskill Brothers' Stone Store shootout in 1875.
  • Alien smuggling, also known as human smuggling, involves helping individuals cross international borders illegally, often through deception or clandestine means. This practice is typically done for financial gain and involves aiding individuals in entering a country where they are not citizens. Unlike human trafficking, alien smuggling usually involves a conse ...

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#200 Tom Homan - The U.S. Border Czar

Trump Administration's Border Security and Immigration Policies

The Trump Administration's approach to border security and immigration policy, notably under the oversight of Tom Homan, sought to implement a comprehensive strategy that aimed to reduce illegal crossings and enforce immigration laws within the United States.

Trump Appointed Homan as "Border Czar" to Oversee Security and Enforcement

Shawn Ryan introduces Tom Homan as the "border czar" under President Trump's second administration. Homan was personally asked by President Trump, through an emergency call during his retirement ceremony from John Kelly, Secretary of Homeland Security, to stay on and lead the agency. Offered a two-step promotion, Homan was given the marching orders to enforce the law as he hadn't been able to do in the previous four years, according to Trump.

Homan Developed and Implemented Trump's Hardline Immigration Policies, Including Remain In Mexico and Third Safe Country Agreement

Homan worked closely on Trump's hardline immigration policies, including the "Remain in Mexico" program and the "Third Safe Country Agreement." He was involved in strategic planning that informed border security decisions, contributing to policies aimed at reducing illegal immigration. Thanks to these initiatives, Mexico agreed to keep asylum seekers on its side of the border while their claims were processed, and other countries were held accountable to manage the migration flow.

Homan also emphasized the importance of playing the "away game" against criminal cartels, a strategy endorsed by Trump, which involved designating cartels as terrorists and collaborating with Mexico to combat them. He referenced working directly out of the White House to develop these strategies and policies that proved effective during Trump's administration.

Trump's Policies Significantly Reduced Illegal Crossings

Homan Credits Trump’s Orders and "Whole-Of-government" Approach as Key

Tom Homan credits the significant reduction in illegal crossings to a "whole-of-government" approach initiated under President Trump. This comprehensive strategy entailed coordination among multiple agencies, including ICE, DEA, FBI, ATF, the U.S. Marshals, the State Department, and potentially the postal inspectors. Homan highlights the enhanced sharing of intelligence, integration of databases, and the support ...

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Trump Administration's Border Security and Immigration Policies

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • The "Remain in Mexico" policy and the "Third Safe Country Agreement" have been criticized for potentially violating international asylum laws and putting asylum seekers at risk by forcing them to wait in potentially dangerous conditions in Mexico.
  • Critics argue that the "whole-of-government" approach may have led to the over-militarization of border enforcement, potentially infringing on the rights of migrants and asylum seekers.
  • Some experts contend that the reduction in illegal crossings could be attributed to a variety of factors, including seasonal trends and changing economic conditions, not solely the Trump administration's policies.
  • There are concerns that the aggressive enforcement policies may have led to human rights abuses, including the separation of families and the detention of children in conditions that do not meet international standards.
  • The designation of cartels as terrorist organizations has been debated, with some experts suggesting it could have unintended consequences, such as hindering coop ...

Actionables

  • You can educate yourself on immigration policies by reading government documents and reputable news sources to understand the complexities of border security. By doing so, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the policies that affect immigration and border security, similar to how Tom Homan had to be well-versed in these areas to implement the strategies he did. Start with the Department of Homeland Security's website and look for articles from established media outlets that explain current and past immigration policies.
  • Volunteer with local organizations that work with immigrants to see firsthand the impact of immigration policies on individuals and communities. This will give you a personal perspective on the human side of immigration, contrasting the macro-level focus on border security. Look for non-profits and community centers in your area that offer services to immigrants and ask how you can help.
  • Engage ...

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#200 Tom Homan - The U.S. Border Czar

Impacts of Biden's Border Security and Immigration Policies

The conversation with Tom Homan focuses on the impacts of the Biden administration's border security and immigration policies, highlighting concerns over increased illegal border activities and questioning the motivations behind policy changes.

Biden's Reversal of Trump Policies Spurs Illegal Border Surge

Tom Homan vocalizes significant dissatisfaction with the Biden administration's reversal of Trump-era immigration policies, which he suggests has led to a surge in illegal border crossings. He cites data indicating that under Biden, an unprecedented number of people from 181 countries knew they could be quickly released into the U.S. and receive various free services. Homan criticizes these policy changes and claims they have empowered cartels, giving them operational control of the southern border.

Homan compares the vastly different numbers of individuals released into the U.S. under the Trump administration versus the Biden administration. He indicates that the Border Patrol catches perhaps only 10% of what is coming across the border, highlighting a significant increase in the number of releases under Biden's watch.

Moreover, Homan points to changes concerning the treatment of children detained at the border. He contends that these children are now being handed over to the same individuals who may have arranged their smuggling, which he refers to as a felony.

Homan also expresses frustration, suggesting he is disturbed by the consequences of a more porous border, which he believes would result in more deaths and sexual assaults by cartels. Although there is no direct quote addressing Homan's daily emotional state, the overall context implies deep dissatisfaction with the perceived insecurity at the border due to policy shifts under the Biden administration.

Tom Homan is critical of what he terms the Biden administration's "legal pathways," referencing programs like the CBP1 app and the CH ...

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Impacts of Biden's Border Security and Immigration Policies

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • The surge in illegal border crossings may be influenced by a variety of factors beyond policy changes, such as economic conditions, violence in home countries, and natural disasters.
  • Operational control of the border is a complex issue, and it's possible that cartels may exploit any perceived weaknesses regardless of specific policies.
  • The figure that Border Patrol catches only about 10% of what is coming across the border could be contested or require more context to understand its accuracy.
  • The handling of children at the border is governed by legal frameworks intended to protect minors, and the Biden administration may argue that their policies are in line with humanitarian principles.
  • The assertion that a more porous border could lead to more deaths and sexual assaults by cartels could be challenged by data showing that safer and more legal pathways reduce the need for dangerous journeys facilitated by cartels.
  • The CBP1 app and CHNV program may be part of a broader strategy to manage immigration more effectively and could be argued to provide alternatives to dangerous illegal crossings.
  • The motivation behind changes in border security policies could be argued as humanitarian rather than purely political, aiming to address the complexities of immigration in a more compassionate manner.
  • The facilitation of illegal immigration is a seriou ...

Actionables

  • You can educate yourself on immigration law to better understand the complexities of the system. Start by reading up on the basics of immigration policy and the legal definitions of terms like "asylum," "refugee," and "illegal entry." Websites like the American Immigration Council or the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services offer resources and educational materials that can help you grasp the nuances of the topic.
  • Volunteer with local organizations that work with immigrants and refugees to gain firsthand experience. By offering your time to help with language tutoring, job training, or legal assistance, you'll see the human side of immigration policies and their impact on individuals. This can provide a more balanced perspective and allow you to contribute positively to the lives of those affected by the policies you're learning about.
  • Engage in respectful conversations with people who have different viewp ...

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#200 Tom Homan - The U.S. Border Czar

Challenges With Cartels, Human Trafficking, and Border Security

Tom Homan strongly emphasizes the many challenges at the U.S. southern border, rooted in cartel activity, human trafficking, and border security issues. He shares his firsthand experiences in addressing these crises and his deep concerns for public safety and national security.

Homan Has Witnessed Cartel Crimes, Including Migrant Rape, Murder, and Child Deaths in Border Crossings

Homan Impacted by Cases Like 19 Deaths and Repeated Rape of 9-Year-Old Girl

Tom Homan is profoundly affected by the tragedies arising at the border, a crisis often marred by violence and exploitation by cartels. He recounts a traumatic instance where a 9-year-old girl was repeatedly assaulted by cartel members during her journey to the U.S. Homan was personally impacted by the case, highlighting that these encounters deeply influence his perspectives on border security.

Cartel crimes are not only limited to sexual violence but also to horrifying events like the 19 individuals who died in a tractor-trailer in Victoria, Texas. Homan describes this scene in harrowing detail—stories of people clawing for air and a personal connection to a child who died in the same color underwear as his five-year-old son at the time. This, among other devastating incidents like finding rape trees and hearing of a young girl's body violated postmortem, paints a grim picture of the border crisis.

Homan Claims Cartels Control the Border With 2.2 Million "Gotaways" Under Biden, Including Criminals, Traffickers, and Potential Terrorists

Homan Concerned About National Security of Porous Border With Terror Watch List Individuals Apprehended Crossing

Homan provides a stern warning about the current state of U.S. border security under the Biden administration, claiming control has been ceded to the cartels. With over 2.2 million "gotaways," those who eluded authorities, the nation could be harboring criminals ...

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Challenges With Cartels, Human Trafficking, and Border Security

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Tom Homan is a former senior official in the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency. He has been vocal about border security issues and challenges, particularly related to cartel activities, human trafficking, and national security concerns at the U.S. southern border. Homan's experiences and perspectives are often cited in discussions about these complex issues.
  • "Gotaways" is a term used to describe individuals who successfully evade apprehension by authorities at the border. These are people who manage to cross the border without being detected or caught by law enforcement. The term typically applies to those who escape after crossing into a country illegally, of ...

Counterarguments

  • The number of "gotaways" is difficult to accurately measure, and the figure of 2.2 million may not be precise or may be used in a misleading context.
  • The assertion that cartels control the border could be challenged by pointing out the efforts and resources that U.S. border security agencies deploy to manage and secure the border.
  • The link between border security and national security is complex, and not all unvetted individuals pose a security threat; many are seeking asylum or better living conditions.
  • The presence of individuals from terrorist watch lists does not necessarily indicate a widespread security breach, as the effectiveness of border security should also be measured by the ability to apprehend such individuals.
  • The portrayal of the border situation may lack context regarding the root causes of migration, such as violence, poverty, and political instability in home countries.
  • The effectiveness of border security measures should be balanced with human ...

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