President Donald Trump’s commitment to deporting criminal undocumented immigrants remains steadfast, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt insisted, emphasizing the administration’s focus on law enforcement and public safety amid ongoing debates over immigration policy. Speaking on a Sunday Morning Futures interview, Leavitt highlighted the administration’s enforcement priorities and defended federal agents amid criticism from Democrats.
Leavitt said that “President Trump is never going to waver in the commitment that he made to the nearly 80 million Americans who voted for him to deport illegal alien criminals who broke our nation’s laws to get here and then have committed further crimes of violence against American citizens.” She described Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers and Border Patrol agents as “true patriots” and called on Democrats to stop demonizing them, citing comparisons of ICE to the Nazi Gestapo as “despicable rhetoric” that has increased threats and attacks against agents.
.@PressSec: "@POTUS is never going to waver in the commitment that he made to the nearly 80 million Americans who voted for him to deport illegal alien criminals who broke our nation's laws to get here and then have committed further crimes of violence against American citizens." pic.twitter.com/pOD3HCcKw2
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) February 1, 2026
Leavitt framed the administration’s approach as central to maintaining law and order, arguing that it has contributed to historically low murder rates in the United States. She contrasted current crime trends with those under President Joe Biden, asserting that violent crime and illegal immigration were higher during his administration.
The press secretary also noted that the administration is open to dialogue with moderate Democrats, citing a recent invitation to lawmakers to discuss policy concerns, which was blocked by party leadership. “These conversations will continue,” Leavitt said, “and ultimately the President will be the decider on any policy changes.” Leavitt emphasized that the White House’s focus is on public safety and enforcing immigration laws without interference. She criticized individuals obstructing Border Patrol operations, including attacks on agents and their vehicles, calling such actions part of organized efforts by leftist agitators under investigation by the FBI and Department of Justice.
The nearly 80 million voters referenced by Leavitt reflects the widespread support President Trump received in the 2024 election, signaling the administration’s belief that immigration enforcement is a key priority for its constituency. Leavitt characterized the administration’s policies as protecting Americans from violent offenders and maintaining the conditions for prosperity and safety that the president sees as essential to unifying the country.
