As President-elect Donald Trump prepares for his return to the White House, his incoming administration is signaling a hardline approach to illegal immigration. At the center of this effort is Tom “The Hammer” Homan, Trump’s pick for border czar, whose ambitious plans include shutting down the Darien Gap—a critical migratory route through Panama—and cracking down on workplace violations across the United States.
In an exclusive interview with NBC News at the southern border, Homan laid out his strategy to tackle illegal immigration not just at the U.S. border but throughout the migratory pipeline. His plan begins with the Darien Gap, a treacherous jungle corridor used by thousands of migrants from South America on their way north.
“It needs to happen,” Homan said firmly. “Shutting down the Darien Gap is going to protect our national security. It’s going to save thousands of lives.”
The Darien Gap, often described as one of the most dangerous stretches of wilderness in the world, is a key chokepoint in the journey for migrants heading to the U.S. By cutting off this route, Homan aims to drastically reduce the flow of illegal immigration at its source.
Homan’s strategy involves diplomatic pressure on Colombia and Panama to curb crossings. Although U.S. military intervention is off the table due to jurisdictional constraints, Homan expressed confidence in Trump’s ability to negotiate cooperation with foreign leaders.
“Trump knows how to apply the right kind of pressure to get results,” Homan stated. “We’re going to work with these countries to create solutions that stop the flow before it reaches our border.”
This approach reflects the incoming administration’s broader philosophy of addressing illegal immigration as a transnational issue rather than solely a domestic one.
In addition to targeting the Darien Gap, Homan emphasized the return of workplace enforcement raids, a hallmark of Trump’s first term. These operations, which often involve collateral arrests of undocumented immigrants found during raids, will resume as part of a broader effort to dismantle the underground labor market.
“We’re going to do it in a smart way,” Homan explained. “Workplace operations are critical because they’re where we find victims of forced labor, often tied to cartels.”
By focusing on workplaces, the administration hopes to disrupt the economic incentives driving illegal immigration. Homan also warned that employers hiring undocumented workers would face significant consequences.
“There’s no excuse for employing people who are here illegally,” he said. “It’s time to close that loophole and hold employers accountable.”
Homan argued that cracking down on employers is essential to deterring future illegal immigration. Without the promise of jobs, he believes fewer migrants will attempt to enter the country unlawfully.
Homan is optimistic about securing the necessary funding and legislative backing to implement his ambitious agenda. He believes the American public’s demand for stricter immigration enforcement will pressure Congress to act.
“This is the No. 1 issue for Americans,” Homan said. “The voters have spoken, and Congress is paying attention. They’ll give us the money to do this job.”
He also highlighted the importance of comprehensive legislative reform, particularly in addressing the labor market and human trafficking.
“It’s not just about enforcement,” he said. “It’s about fixing the system so that it works for everyone while protecting our national security.”
Homan’s blunt rhetoric has drawn both praise and criticism. During the interview, he delivered a stark message to undocumented immigrants:
“Go home.”
The border czar’s unapologetic stance underscores the administration’s commitment to removing those living in the U.S. illegally. Critics, however, argue that these measures could create widespread fear and hardship within immigrant communities.
Supporters see Homan’s approach as a necessary step to restore order to what they perceive as a chaotic and overwhelmed immigration system. Opponents warn that such policies could strain relations with foreign governments, disrupt communities, and lead to human rights concerns.
The Trump administration’s immigration strategy hinges on several factors: cooperation from foreign governments, significant funding, and public support. Shutting down the Darien Gap, reviving workplace raids, and addressing systemic issues are ambitious goals that will require coordinated efforts at multiple levels.
Homan is undeterred by the challenges ahead. For him, the fight against illegal immigration is not just about border control but about protecting the nation’s security and sovereignty.
“It’s about national security,” Homan emphasized. “We’re going to leave no stone unturned in securing this country.”
The coming months will test the feasibility and effectiveness of Homan’s plans. While his hardline approach has energized supporters, it has also sparked fierce debate about the future of U.S. immigration policy.
As the administration moves forward, one thing is certain: Tom Homan is ready to lead the charge with an iron fist and a clear mission.

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