Senate Majority Leader John Thune advised Republicans to set realistic expectations about the scale of deportations anticipated under President-elect Donald Trump's incoming administration.

Thune emphasized the necessity of concentrating deportation efforts on individuals who have committed crimes and to enforce security at the southern border, as the Daily Wire reports, narrowing the scope of what Trump has said he intends.

In an interview on NBC's Meet the Press this past Sunday, Thune suggested that the notion of deporting every undocumented individual in the United States is impractical.

He highlighted the importance of addressing the more immediate concern of criminals and others who pose a risk to national security.

Trump's plans to deport millions of undocumented immigrants were a prominent feature of his election platform. However, Thune indicated that careful prioritization is essential to make these plans viable and effective.

Addressing Southern Border Challenges

Thune discussed the substantial number of individuals who have entered the U.S. in recent years, noting that over 10 million have crossed into the country within the past four years.

Among these are individuals involved in illegal activities, which heightens the urgency for strategic deportations.

He noted that nearly 300 apprehended individuals at the southern border are on the terrorist watchlist, in addition to criminals, cartel affiliates, and gang members. This highlights the complexities involved in maintaining border security and public safety.

Thune reiterated the call for enhanced border security measures. He emphasized the need for additional physical barriers and advanced technology, which he believes will deter illegal crossings and streamline border enforcement operations.

Resourcefulness in Enabling Deportations

The Senate majority leader underlined the significance of equipping border personnel and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents with adequate resources to manage the deportation process effectively. "It’s going to take resources, obviously, to get people to leave the country," he stated.

With a current list of over 1.4 million people identified for deportation, Thune stressed the logistical challenges involved in such operations. He acknowledged that deporting every undocumented individual is an impractical goal due to their sheer number.

Therefore, prioritizing the deportation of those who have been convicted of crimes remains a focal point as the new administration prepares to take office. Thune urged for a realistic approach in expectation management regarding the number of deportations achievable.

Strategic Approaches for Immigration Policy

As part of a long-term solution, Thune urged changes to the incentive structure that encourages illegal immigration. He believes that discouraging illegal entry into the U.S. demands not only stricter border security but also legislative reforms.

The focus, according to Thune, should be on structural and policy adjustments that would naturally dissuade potential unauthorized entries. This will ensure the limited resources allocated for managing immigration are utilized effectively.

Moreover, Thune stressed the importance of beginning with the deportation of those on the administration's current list of identified individuals and adjusting strategies based on evolving needs and circumstances.

Balancing Immigration Policies and Practicalities

Given the complexities of the immigration landscape, Thune acknowledged that each decision carried out by the administration would have wide-ranging impacts. He implied that a careful assessment must accompany every action to avoid unintended consequences.

Thune's advice reflects a broader concern within Republican circles to manage expectations while supporting Trump's immigration agenda. He emphasized cooperation between legislative and executive branches to facilitate these new policies.

In conclusion, as the Trump administration prepares to address immigration challenges, Thune's remarks offer a groundwork for balancing policy goals with practicality. Careful prioritization and resource allocation are central to their success. The priorities laid out by Thune highlight the nuanced approach required to tackle the multifaceted issue of immigration effectively.