Key facts
- DHS official stated that all individuals crossing the border illegally are criminals for breaking the law.
- The official disputed claims that detained immigrants lack criminal records.
- DHS stated its focus is on mass deportations.
- DHS suggested offering a financial incentive for self-deportation.
- Concerns were raised that strict immigration enforcement could alienate Hispanic voters.
A Department of Homeland Security (DHS) official has countered claims that many detained immigrants lack criminal records, asserting that all individuals who cross the U.S. border illegally are breaking the law. The official, identified as Mullin, stated in a cable news appearance that "every one of them was a criminal because they broke our laws when they came across our borders illegally."
This statement comes in response to a video released by Florida Republican Representative Maria Salazar, who criticized President Trump's immigration enforcement agenda. Salazar claimed that many of the immigrants being detained have no criminal record and that such policies could alienate Hispanic voters who supported Trump. Mullin downplayed these concerns, suggesting that the individuals who voted for Trump did so through legal means and became citizens, and that the administration is targeting those who did not follow the proper procedures.