A report published on Thursday by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency revealed that over 271,000 immigrants were deported from the United States in the previous fiscal year, a significant deviation from President Joe Biden’s 2021 commitment to stop deportations.
This policy change, attributed to increased border crossing incidents due to [specific reasons], has disappointed many. Last year’s deportation figures marked the highest level in nearly ten years, exceeding those from former President Donald Trump’s initial term.
The unexpected surge in deportations during Biden’s presidency appears to be a result of a more streamlined process. According to ICE’s report, this trend began weeks before Trump took office, a revelation that may surprise many.
Migrant figures at the U.S.-Mexico border have fallen to their lowest level since 2020, according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
While Trump has underscored large-scale deportations as a cornerstone of his upcoming administration, the immigration system is reportedly operating with a budget deficit of $230 million. This financial shortfall may cast doubt on the feasibility of Trump’s ambitions for his proposed ‘mass deportation’ campaign, a concern many may share.
Border authorities apprehended 82% of immigrants. In 2024, the majority of deportations involved undocumented immigrants who were arrested by border officials rather than those detained within the country. About 82% of the immigrants who were deported had been arrested by border authorities.
Caroline Leavitt, the National Press Secretary for the soon-to-be administration, pointed out that Biden’s deportation statistics seem to be at odds with the number of undocumented immigrants present during his term. She further stated, “On day one, President Trump will address the immigration and national security crisis caused by Joe Biden, who initiated what appears to be the most extensive mass deportation campaign of illegal criminals in U.S. history.” This discrepancy may raise questions and concerns among the public.