Trump administration to maintain aggressive immigration crackdown after midterms

Multiple U.S. officials told CBS News that the Trump administration is unlikely to reduce its aggressive immigration enforcement following the midterm elections. This assessment was linked to the appointment of Stephen Miller, known for his hardline immigration views, as White House chief of staff.

Despite significant Republican losses nationwide, including in traditionally conservative states like Texas, and exit polls showing immigration as a top issue for Latino voters, the administration has not altered its enforcement strategy. A majority of voters nationwide felt the deportation crackdown had gone too far.

Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials have not received any directives to scale back immigration enforcement since the elections, sources said. ICE has been tasked with carrying out approximately 19,000 arrests per week, an increase from the previous daily target of 2,000 arrests.

With Democrats set to control both chambers of Congress in January and poised to investigate immigration policies, the administration appears to be doubling down on its approach. Officials indicated that the electoral setbacks were not expected to change enforcement priorities, especially with Miller in a key leadership role.