Controversy Surrounding DHS Request for 21,000 National Guard Troops for Immigration Enforcement
The Department of Homeland Security has requested 21,000 National Guard troops to assist in interior immigration enforcement operations, including tasks such as searching for unaccompanied children and transporting detainees between states. This request has raised concerns among Democrats in Congress and some military and law enforcement officials. The details of the request were outlined in a document dated May 9th, which marks the first formal request by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for the deployment of National Guard personnel for interior immigration enforcement operations.
The request specifies various tasks for the National Guard troops, such as search and rescue for unaccompanied alien children in remote areas, intra- and inter-state transport of detainees, and administrative support for processing detainees. Additionally, the request includes assignments for troops to attempt to locate fugitives, conduct surveillance and canvassing missions, and support ICE in joint task force operations for absconder/fugitive tracking. The use of National Guard troops for civilian law enforcement duties has sparked concerns among officials and lawmakers.
The Pentagon is currently evaluating the request, and Secretary of Defense Peter Hegseth is reportedly close to approving some elements of the plan. The National Guard troops would be deployed under Title 32 status, allowing them to conduct law enforcement activities while remaining under the command of their respective governors. The request also includes a provision for the Pentagon to cover the full cost of deploying the 21,000 National Guard troops.
The DHS request for National Guard troops comes at a time when the Pentagon is already incurring significant costs for immigrant-related operations, including holding undocumented immigrants in a military facility in Texas. The Defense Department is seeking to reduce the number of beds in the facility to save costs. The DHS request for National Guard troops may impact the need for additional beds in the facility. Additionally, the Pentagon is redirecting funds from existing military construction projects to support southwest border missions, drawing criticism from service member advocacy groups.
In conclusion, the Department of Homeland Security's request for 21,000 National Guard troops to assist in interior immigration enforcement operations has raised concerns among officials and lawmakers. The Pentagon is evaluating the request, and if approved, the National Guard troops would be deployed under Title 32 status. The request also includes a provision for the Pentagon to cover the full cost of deploying the troops, amid ongoing tensions between the Pentagon and DHS over funding for immigrant-related operations.