Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem delivered a stark message Sunday, confirming that the Trump administration will “absolutely” deport individuals with pending asylum claims “if they should be” removed from the United States.
During a Sunday appearance on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Noem fielded pointed questions about the administration’s aggressive stance on illegal immigration and migration programs. Her comments came as the Trump administration prepares to implement sweeping changes to America’s immigration system.
The interview follows President Donald Trump’s recent announcement that he plans to suspend migration from “third world countries” after a tragic incident last week involving an Afghan national who allegedly opened fire on National Guard members in Washington, killing one servicemember and wounding another.
Noem’s declaration signals a dramatic shift in how the United States will handle asylum cases, traditionally viewed as a humanitarian protection for individuals fleeing persecution in their home countries. The secretary’s firm stance suggests the administration will prioritize deportations even for those whose asylum applications remain under review.
The timing of these policy announcements reflects the administration’s response to growing concerns about national security and immigration enforcement. The shooting incident involving the Afghan national has intensified scrutiny of existing migration programs and raised questions about vetting procedures for individuals from certain countries.
Immigration advocates and legal experts are likely to challenge any broad deportation efforts targeting asylum seekers, arguing that such actions could violate international law and long-standing U.S. commitments to protect those fleeing persecution. However, the administration appears prepared to push forward with its hardline approach.
The DHS secretary’s comments provide the clearest indication yet of how the Trump administration plans to reshape America’s immigration landscape, moving away from previous policies that allowed asylum seekers to remain in the country while their cases proceeded through the immigration court system.
As these policy changes take shape, immigration attorneys, advocacy groups, and affected communities are bracing for significant upheaval in the nation’s approach to asylum and refugee protection. The administration’s willingness to deport individuals with pending claims marks a fundamental departure from decades of established immigration practice.
