White House Press Secretary: All Illegal Immigrants Arrested Are Criminals
The White House reaffirmed its strict stance on immigration Tuesday, stating that all illegal immigrants arrested by federal authorities are considered criminals under the Trump administration’s policies.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt Clarifies Stance
During her first press briefing since President Donald Trump returned to office, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed questions about the recent mass arrests conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
A reporter inquired about the 3,500 arrests made since Trump’s return, asking:
“Can you provide the numbers? How many of those arrested have a criminal record versus those who are simply in the country illegally?”
Leavitt firmly responded:
“All of them, because they illegally broke our nation’s laws, and therefore, they are criminals as far as this administration is concerned.”
She contrasted this with the previous administration’s approach, saying:
“I know the last administration didn’t see it that way. So, it’s a big culture shift in our nation to view someone who breaks our immigration laws as a criminal, but that’s exactly what they are.”
Are They All Convicted Criminals?
When pressed further on whether all those arrested had criminal records, Leavitt doubled down:
“If they broke our nation’s laws, yes, they are a criminal.”
Thousands Arrested in Sweeping ICE Operations
Since President Trump resumed office, federal immigration authorities have arrested thousands of undocumented immigrants, with a primary focus on those with prior criminal records.
On Sunday alone:
- 1,000 illegal immigrants were arrested
- 554 detainers were lodged
The administration’s strict immigration policies mark a significant shift from the previous approach, emphasizing tougher enforcement and broader criminal classifications for those in the country illegally.
