President Donald J. Trump issued a Thanksgiving message on November 23, 2023, via his social media platform Truth Social, in which he outlined a stringent approach to immigration. This statement targeted both current and prospective immigrants, emphasizing a desire for a “major reduction” in what he described as disruptive populations in the United States.
In his post, Trump proposed a “permanent pause” on migration from all Third World Countries. He argued that this measure would allow the U.S. immigration system to “fully recover.” The former president criticized the admissions made under the previous administration, alleging that millions of migrants were approved through an “unauthorized and illegal Autopen process.” He pledged to terminate these admissions as part of his broader immigration reform agenda.
Trump’s message included calls for significant changes to current policies. He advocated for the elimination of federal benefits and subsidies for noncitizens and proposed denaturalizing migrants who he claims “undermine domestic tranquility.” Furthermore, he stated intentions to deport individuals he considers public charges, security risks, or those “non-compatible with Western Civilization.” He framed these proposals as essential for achieving what he termed “REVERSE MIGRATION,” aimed at reducing illegal immigration and the presence of what he considers disruptive populations.
Critique of Local Leaders and Community Refugees
The Thanksgiving message also referenced specific communities, including Somali refugees in Minnesota. Trump criticized local leaders for their handling of immigration issues, specifically mentioning Governor Tim Walz and Representative Ilhan Omar. He positioned his remarks within a Thanksgiving context, expressing gratitude for American citizens who face challenges he attributes to immigration. Trump warned that individuals who “hate, steal, murder and destroy everything that America stands for” “won’t be here for long,” reiterating his commitment to a strict immigration policy.
This post emerges amidst a broader national debate over immigration policy, border security, and the treatment of foreign-born residents. Trump’s continued focus on restrictive measures and public benefits reflects his ongoing influence in the political discourse surrounding immigration.
As discussions around these issues evolve, Trump’s Thanksgiving message underscores the contentious nature of immigration policy in the United States, highlighting the stark divisions that exist within the public and political spheres regarding this critical topic.
