Governor’s Directive

Governor Stitt has instructed the state’s commissioner of public safety to oversee the development of a detailed plan. This document will address the procedures for expelling illegal immigrants from Oklahoma’s correctional facilities. The finalized plan is set to be revealed by January, with expected consultations with the Trump transition team on its execution.

Stitt, speaking to Fox News Digital, characterized the endeavor as a straightforward matter of “common sense” and emphasized the importance of restoring law and order in Oklahoma. He stated, “These are people that are here illegally, that have committed crimes, and we want to make sure that they’re not burdensome to the taxpayers of the state of Oklahoma.”

Financial Implications

The state government has revealed that there are currently over 500 criminal illegal immigrants housed in Oklahoma’s prisons, costing taxpayers an estimated ,000 daily. The financial strain on the state underscores the urgency of this deportation initiative, as Stitt seeks to alleviate this burden.

President Trump has pledged to initiate a nationwide mass deportation operation in the coming year, which has met resistance from various Democratic officials in jurisdictions that adopt “sanctuary” policies. Tom Homan, the incoming border czar, has stated that the emphasis will be on threats to public safety and national security, asserting that all illegal immigrants involved in criminal activities will be prioritized for deportation.

Dissent from Democrats

Governor Stitt expressed surprise at the backlash from certain Democratic leaders, insisting that the focus of this operation is solely on the removal of criminals from the country. “What’s amazing to me is you have some Democrat governors that are now talking about not supporting President Trump, and I don’t think they learned anything from the election,” he remarked. “The American people want safe communities, and we want to have strong borders.”

He went on to justify the move, stating, “When you think about someone that’s here illegally, that’s breaking the law, that’s pushing fentanyl, or they have been convicted of rape or burglary, and they’re not U.S. citizens, and they’re here illegally. I don’t know who could argue with me on ‘We want to make sure that those people are out of our country and not allowed to return.’”

Impact on Oklahoma

Despite not being a border state, Oklahoma has not been immune to the repercussions of the ongoing crisis at the U.S.-Mexico border. Stitt highlighted a staggering 500% increase in fentanyl-related deaths since he took office, illustrating the serious public health issues exacerbated by illegal immigration. Recent incidents, including a foiled terror plot linked to an Afghan suspect residing in Oklahoma, further illustrate the potential dangers associated with illegal immigration.

A Nuanced Approach to Immigration

Governor Stitt clarified that his stance does not equate to a blanket opposition to immigration. “If you’re at the University of Oklahoma on an education visa, we certainly want to be able to convert that to a workforce visa if we have an employer that needs that job, and if you want to chase the American dream, if you want to be part of paying taxes, part of our society, then we absolutely want to work that angle as well,” he stated.

Looking Ahead

Stitt expressed optimism about the future, believing there is growing enthusiasm among Americans regarding potential improvements in community safety. “I think the American people have spoken loud and clear with Trump’s victory that they believe in safe communities. And so I think it’s the right thing to do,” he said, alluding to the anticipated changes under the new administration. The Governor conveyed excitement regarding President Trump’s cabinet selections, a sign he believes will usher in a new era for America.