Trump’s Immigration Crackdown and Selena Gomez’s Response
Trump’s Largest Deportation Plan
Donald Trump pledged to launch the “largest deportation program in the history of the world,” vowing to remove up to 20 million undocumented immigrants. He stated, “We will begin the process of returning millions and millions of criminal aliens back to the places from which they came.”
Selena Gomez’s Emotional Reaction
Selena Gomez shared a tearful video on Instagram, expressing distress over Trump’s policies. She lamented, “All my people are getting attacked, the children. I don’t understand. I’m so sorry.” Likely referencing her Mexican heritage, she claimed “her people” were being assaulted. The video sparked mixed reactions and was deleted shortly after posting.
White House Responds
On January 31, the White House released its own Instagram video, highlighting three women—Kayla Hamilton, Jocelyn Nungaray, and Rachel Morin—who were allegedly murdered by undocumented immigrants. The caption read: “Kayla Hamilton, Jocelyn Nungaray, and Rachel Morin were murdered by illegal aliens.”
Mothers of the victims directly addressed Gomez. Tammy Nobles, mother of Kayla Hamilton, stated, “What about our children who were brutally murdered, raped, and beaten to death? The people you cry for didn’t shed a tear for our daughters.” Alex Nungaray added, “It’s hard to believe her video is genuine—she’s an actress.” Rachel Morin’s mother, Patty Morin, called Gomez’s plea “a ruse to deceive people and garner sympathy for lawlessness.”
Public Reaction
The White House video sparked debate. Some supported its response to Gomez, while others criticized it as unprofessional and exploitative of grieving mothers for political purposes.
Key Aspects of Trump’s Immigration Policies
Expanded Deportation Scope
Initially targeting migrants accused of crimes, Trump’s plan also includes undocumented individuals without criminal records. His administration emphasized swift enforcement.
Collateral Arrests
Authorities will detain undocumented individuals found near those accused of crimes, even if they haven’t committed any offenses themselves.
Law Enforcement’s Role
Trump directed federal agencies—including the FBI, DEA, and U.S. Marshals—to search databases for undocumented immigrants. He also warned local authorities against obstructing enforcement efforts.
Removal of Protection Zones
The administration revoked policies preventing arrests in schools, churches, and other protected areas.
Additional Immigration Measures
Refugee and Travel Bans
Trump reinstated travel bans, particularly targeting Muslim-majority countries. He declared, “We will seal our border and bring back the travel ban.”
Ending Birthright Citizenship
An executive order aimed to end birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants. However, a Seattle District Court judge ruled it “blatantly unconstitutional.”
Zero Tolerance for Illegal Entry
Trump’s policies prohibit undocumented migrants from claiming asylum upon entering the U.S. illegally.
Reinstating ‘Remain in Mexico’
Under this policy, non-Mexican asylum seekers must wait in Mexico for their U.S. court hearings. The Mexican government is preparing for an influx of deportees.
Trump’s immigration policies continue to divide public opinion. While supporters praise his firm stance, critics argue it targets vulnerable communities. Selena Gomez’s emotional plea and the White House’s response only intensified the national debate.
