Oklahoma’s Push for Criminal Immigrant Deportation
In a bold move signaling the alignment of state policy with federal immigration efforts, Oklahoma Republican Governor Kevin Stitt announced the creation of a comprehensive plan aimed at deporting criminal illegal immigrants currently housed in state prisons. This plan comes as a significant endorsement of President-elect Donald Trump’s anticipated mass deportation initiatives, set to be implemented next year.
Governor Stitt’s Initiative
Governor Stitt has directed the state’s commissioner of public safety to take the helm of this pressing initiative. The strategy focuses specifically on those incarcerated individuals identified as being in the U.S. illegally. Stitt aims to finalize and present this plan by January, collaborating closely with members of the Trump transition team to ensure its effective implementation.
Stitt articulated his perspective on the initiative, characterizing it as a matter of “common sense” and a step towards restoring the rule of law in Oklahoma. “These are people that are here illegally, that have committed crimes,” he stated during an interview with Fox News Digital. “We want to make sure that they’re not burdensome to the taxpayers of the state of Oklahoma,” he added.
The Financial Impact
According to state officials, there are over 500 criminal illegal immigrants currently residing in Oklahoma’s correctional facilities. The financial burden of housing these individuals is staggering, costing Oklahoma taxpayers approximately ,000 every day. The urgency of Governor Stitt’s initiative is underscored by the substantial costs imposed on the state budget.
Public Safety and National Security Concerns
The proposed operation aligns with Trump’s broader immigration enforcement strategy, which has faced backlash from various Democrats, especially in “sanctuary” jurisdictions. As Trump’s incoming border czar, Tom Homan, indicated, public safety and addressing national security threats would be the administration’s foremost priorities, with no offender falling outside the scope of potential removal.
Stitt expressed his surprise at the opposition voiced by some Democratic governors, emphasizing the initiative’s focus on removing criminals from the country. “What’s amazing to me is you have some Democrat governors that are now talking about not supporting President Trump,” he remarked. “The American people want safe communities, and we want to have strong borders.” This sentiment reflects a growing concern among many Americans regarding crime, drug trafficking, and border security.
Criminal Activities and Their Impact
Highlighting the serious implications of illegal immigration, Governor Stitt cited specific instances of crime linked to undocumented individuals. “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… 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,’” he stated vehemently.
Although Oklahoma is not a border state, Stitt argued that it is not immune to the repercussions of the ongoing crisis at the southern border. He pointed out the alarming 500% increase in fentanyl-related deaths in Oklahoma since he took office and referenced a recent foiled terror plot wherein the suspect was living in the state.
A Balanced View of Immigration
While staunchly advocating for the deportation of criminal illegal immigrants, Governor Stitt clarified his position regarding legal immigration. He expressed support for individuals who come to the U.S. through legal channels, particularly students on educational visas. “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,” he emphasized. Stitt’s remarks highlight a belief in a balanced approach to immigration, one that differentiates between those who wish to contribute positively to society and those who pose a threat.
Looking Ahead: A New Era for America
Governor Stitt expressed optimism about the future, suggesting that the results of the recent elections reflect a broader desire for enhanced safety across American communities. “I think the American people have spoken loud and clear with Trump’s victory that they believe in safe communities,” he stated. This optimism aligns with a belief that the incoming administration will prioritize measures aimed at public safety and national security.
As Stitt champions this initiative, he anticipates positive changes that will impact the lives of Oklahomans and set a precedent for other states to follow. With the potential implementation of this deportation strategy, the state aims not only to alleviate financial burdens but also to enhance the overall safety and well-being of its residents.
Conclusion
As Oklahoma sets into motion a plan to deport criminal illegal immigrants, Governor Stitt stands firm in his belief that such actions are essential for maintaining law and order and ensuring public safety. The collaboration with the Trump administration signifies a significant shift in state policy that reflects a growing consensus on the need for a strict approach to immigration enforcement. As the national conversation around immigration continues, Oklahoma’s initiative may well serve as a bellwether for other states grappling with similar issues.
