A Mexican migrant's alleged plot to assassinate President Donald Trump was thwarted by swift action from Immigration and Customs Enforcement. On May 22, 2025, ICE agents arrested Ramon Morales-Reyes, a 54-year-old unauthorized migrant, for reportedly sending a chilling handwritten threat.
The Daily Caller reported that ICE nabbed Morales-Reyes after an officer received his threatening note on May 21, 2025, vowing to shoot Trump at a rally. The arrest, confirmed by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem on May 28, underscores the vigilance of federal agents.
This incident follows a disturbing pattern of threats against the president. The letter, allegedly penned by Morales-Reyes, raged against Trump’s deportations, claiming Mexicans contribute more to America than “white people.”
“We are tired of this president messing with us Mexicans,” he wrote, revealing a motive rooted in personal grievance. Such rhetoric exposes the volatile emotions fueling some anti-Trump sentiments.
Morales-Reyes is no stranger to defying U.S. borders, having slipped into the country unlawfully at least nine times between 1998 and 2005. His persistence raises questions about the effectiveness of past border security measures. It seems that actions do have consequences.
Beyond border violations, Morales-Reyes carries a rap sheet including felony hit and run and disorderly conduct tied to domestic abuse.
These prior arrests paint a troubling picture of disregard for the law. Yet, progressive voices might argue his circumstances reflect systemic failures, though that’s a stretch here.
In the letter, Morales-Reyes chillingly outlined his plan: shoot Trump in the head with a .30-06 Springfield rifle, then “self-deport” to Mexico. “I will see him at one of his big rallies [sic],” he wrote, betraying both intent and poor spelling. The specificity of the threat left little room for doubt about his seriousness.
This arrest comes less than a year after Trump survived a shooting in Butler, Pennsylvania. Noem noted it also follows former FBI Director James Comey’s alleged call for Trump’s assassination just weeks prior. The timing suggests a dangerous escalation in political violence.
“Thanks to our ICE officers, this illegal alien who threatened to assassinate President Trump is behind bars,” Noem declared.
Her gratitude highlights the critical role of law enforcement in neutralizing such threats. Still, one wonders if softer rhetoric from all sides could cool these tensions.
Morales-Reyes now sits in ICE custody at Dodge County Jail in Juneau, Wisconsin, awaiting deportation proceedings. His detention serves as a stark reminder that borders and laws exist for a reason. Yet, some might argue his desperation reflects broader immigration policy failures.
Noem didn’t mince words, urging politicians and media to “tone down their rhetoric” amid repeated threats on Trump’s life. “All politicians and members of the media should take notice,” she said. It’s a pointed jab at those fanning divisive flames.
The letter’s vitriol, alleging Trump deserved “what he has coming to him,” reveals a deep-seated anger. Such sentiments, while extreme, hint at the frustration some migrants feel toward deportation policies. Empathy doesn’t excuse threats, but it might explain their roots.
ICE’s rapid response likely prevented a tragedy, but the incident raises broader questions about border enforcement.
Morales-Reyes’ repeated entries suggest gaps that need closing. A secure border, after all, protects everyone.
Noem’s press release framed the arrest as a victory for law and order. “This threat comes not even a year after President Trump was shot,” she reiterated, tying it to a pattern of violence. Her words carry weight in a polarized nation.
