Donald Trump Reaffirms Commitment To Deportation And Legal Immigration Reform In Latest NBC Interview

Upon assuming office, US President Donald Trump reaffirmed his commitment to deporting undocumented immigrants and promised to streamline the process for legal immigration.

In an interview with NBC News on Sunday (8 December), Trump outlined his two-fold strategy, which could have wide-ranging implications, including for Indian immigrants who typically enter the US through legal channels. His remarks emphasised the necessity of upholding the law while ensuring that legal immigration is more accessible for those who meet specific standards.

Trump stressed the importance of strict adherence to immigration laws, stating, "People who have been treated unfairly are those who have waited in line for 10 years to come in legally. We’re going to make it easier for people to come in legally, but they’ll have to pass tests, know about our country, and love it."

A central part of Trump’s immigration plan focuses on deporting individuals with criminal records. "We have to get the criminals out of our country," Trump said, expressing concerns over public safety. He highlighted the dangers posed by violent gangs like MS-13, referring to them as "vicious, violent people."

Trump also mentioned the issue of US authorities releasing thousands of murderers in recent years, stating, "We don’t want those people walking next to our families," and suggested the possibility of re-institutionalising individuals removed from mental facilities.

Trump also addressed the situation of "Dreamers," individuals who were brought to the US illegally as children. "Many Dreamers are now middle-aged and don’t speak the language of their home countries. We’ll address their situation, but it will require collaboration with Democrats," he explained, signaling a willingness to work across party lines to find a resolution.

While Trump’s immigration stance remains tough on illegal immigration, he emphasised his desire to simplify legal immigration for those who meet the necessary criteria. "We’ll make it very easy for people to come in who meet the standards. But it must be done legally," he reiterated.

As Trump prepares to assume his presidential duties, his immigration policy reflects a blend of rigorous enforcement and efforts to facilitate legal immigration, signaling a comprehensive approach to address the US immigration challenges.