Donald Trump’s dream of mass deportations is a fantasy
Legal, logistical and political hurdles abound. But even unsuccessful attempts could breed chaos
JUDGE CHRISTOPHER thielemann already seems exhausted when he walks into his chambers. But his exasperation is not directed towards the lawyers, interpreter or immigrants seated before him. It’s just another day at immigration court in downtown Dallas—and lately those days have been busy. Judge Thielemann says he currently has 23,000 cases pending. “I’m going to keep saying that out loud,” he remarks, as if he can’t believe it himself. Then his next deportation hearing begins.
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This article appeared in the United States section of the print edition under the headline “Return to sender”
United States August 31st 2024
From the August 31st 2024 edition
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Donald Trump may find it harder to dominate America’s conversation
A more fragmented media is tougher to manage
An FBI sting operation catches Jackson’s mayor taking big bribes
What the sensational undoing of the black leader means for Mississippi’s failing capital
America’s rural-urban divide nurtures wannabe state-splitters
What’s behind a new wave of secessionism
Does Donald Trump have unlimited authority to impose tariffs?
Yes, but other factors could hold him back
As Jack Smith exits, Donald Trump’s allies hint at retribution
The president-elect hopes to hand the Justice Department to loyalists
Democratic states are preparing for Donald Trump’s return
But Mr Trump will be more prepared, too