WASHINGTON — As former President Donald Trump appears poised for a possible return to the White House, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) is urging undocumented migrant communities to prepare for what she anticipates will be an aggressive deportation campaign. In a recent interview, Ocasio-Cortez discussed potential steps that undocumented immigrants can take to protect themselves and their families, highlighting the possibility of increased enforcement actions under a Trump administration.
The congresswoman expressed concern that some in the immigrant community may not fully understand the extent of the policies being proposed by Trump and his advisers. “I think the Trump campaign ran on this narrative that they were talking about somebody else,” Ocasio-Cortez said. “But a lot of people… don’t think it has sunk in that the administration believes that anybody who is here undocumented has committed a criminal act.” She noted that with figures like Stephen Miller reportedly set to shape immigration policy, Trump’s team may pursue “as broad and aggressive a deportation campaign as possible.”
Ocasio-Cortez, whose district in New York City has a large immigrant population, recommended that undocumented individuals make contingency plans in case they face immigration enforcement. She advised having a trusted network in place, including friends, family members, or community leaders, who are aware of their situation and can provide support. “It’s really important that the people around you… have your information and that there is a plan in case you are apprehended,” she said.
The congresswoman also addressed parents of U.S.-born children, suggesting they ensure their documents are organized and accessible, and to consider having a plan in place for the care of their children if they are detained. She noted that during the previous Trump administration, her district was significantly affected by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids, which disrupted families and left children in need of emergency care.
Ocasio-Cortez encouraged undocumented constituents who are represented by pro-immigrant members of Congress to reach out to their offices in advance. By opening a case with their representative, constituents may have a greater chance of receiving assistance should they encounter immigration enforcement. “Sometimes I will advise my constituents to open a case with me… so that we are authorized to do whatever we can,” she said, adding that having a pre-signed release form could allow her office to act on their behalf if needed.
With Trump’s proposed immigration policies a major point of discussion, Ocasio-Cortez’s comments reflect the fears and concerns of immigrant communities who may face renewed uncertainty. Although details of any future immigration actions remain speculative, advocates and community leaders are mobilizing to help undocumented individuals prepare for a potentially challenging road ahead.
