President Donald Trump’s Border Czar, Tom Homan, just threw down a rhetorical gauntlet that’s sure to rattle some progressive cages.
In a no-holds-barred interview on The Alex Marlow Show podcast, hosted by Breitbart Editor-in-Chief Alex Marlow, Homan aimed at Democratic leaders in California and Illinois for their sharp criticism of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations, suggesting they owe a debt of gratitude for the safety ICE brings to their communities.
Let’s start with the Golden State, where Homan directly addressed California Gov. Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, both Democrats who’ve been vocal in their disapproval of ICE enforcing federal immigration law. He didn’t mince words, pointing out the agency’s track record of removing dangerous individuals from their streets.
“You’re welcome because ICE has taken thousands and thousands of public safety threats off the streets of California,” Homan said to Newsom and Bass during the podcast. Well, isn’t that a polite slap in the face? If safety is the goal, shouldn’t these leaders be sending thank-you cards instead of press releases?
Moving to the Windy City, Homan didn’t let Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker or Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson off the hook either. These Democratic officials have been equally critical of ICE’s presence in their jurisdictions.
In fact, Mayor Johnson recently signed an executive order that bans ICE agents from using city land for enforcement operations. Talk about rolling out the unwelcome mat—Homan must’ve seen that as a personal challenge to double down on his point.
“Whether it’s Pritzker, Newsom, Bass, or Brandon Johnson, you’re welcome for us making your communities safer,” Homan declared on the podcast. That’s a zinger with a smile—calling out sanctuary policies while reminding everyone who’s actually cleaning up the mess. It’s hard to argue with results, even if the method stings a bit.
Homan’s core argument is straightforward: ICE’s actions are making a tangible difference in public safety. He claims the agency has removed countless threats from California alone, a state often at odds with federal immigration priorities.
Extend that logic to Illinois, and the picture becomes even clearer. Homan insists that ICE’s enforcement efforts are a net positive for communities, regardless of local leaders’ objections to their methods.
Now, let’s unpack this sanctuary state stance for a moment. When local leaders block federal agents from doing their jobs, are they prioritizing ideology over safety? Homan’s critique raises a fair question that deserves an honest answer.
Critics like Newsom and Pritzker might argue they’re protecting vulnerable populations from overreach, a position that resonates with many on the left. But when Homan points to thousands of dangerous individuals off the streets, it’s a counterargument that’s tough to dismiss outright.
Chicago’s executive order under Johnson is a particularly bold move, essentially telling ICE to take their operations elsewhere. It’s a symbolic stand, but does it undermine the broader goal of community well-being? Homan’s comments suggest he thinks so.
Homan’s perspective is unapologetically focused on enforcement as a means to an end—safer streets. While progressive leaders push back with policies rooted in compassion or resistance to federal overreach, the debate remains heated on both sides.
At the end of the day, Homan’s message to these Democratic leaders is crystal clear: ICE is doing the heavy lifting, and a little appreciation wouldn’t hurt. It’s a pointed reminder that public safety isn’t a partisan issue, even if the solutions often are. So, will these leaders take the hint, or keep doubling down on defiance?