ICE Director Addresses Refugee Policy

The head of Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the U.S., Tom Homan, has firmly dismissed claims that the United States accepts refugees from South Africa based on their race.

During a conversation with BlazeTV host Glen Beck, Homan made these remarks shortly after President Donald Trump welcomed South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to the White House on the same day.

“Refugees have no color,” Homan emphasized. He responded to Beck’s inquiry regarding media criticism over the Trump administration’s decision to grant asylum to 59 white South Africans. “We do not determine refugee status based on color; it’s based on the law. I’ve read many articles, and it’s not based on color at all.”

Homan also pointed out that including race as a factor in refugee status isn’t how the law is structured, insisting that the administration’s actions align with legal guidelines.

The two also discussed illegal immigration, referencing a program aimed at assisting illegal immigrants in returning to their countries willingly. Homan noted that there had been a positive response, with thousands signing up for the initiative. They organized the first flight for those who opted to return, rewarding them with $1,000 upon arrival.

Homan stated that about 4,500 individuals showed interest in the program, and when options were presented to those detained, roughly half expressed a desire to leave. “Do you want to go home? We’ll help arrange it, and you’ll get $1,000 when you arrive back.” Approximately half took up the offer, he shared.

In the same discussion, Homan reacted to comments from politicians like Rep. Eric Swalwell, who accused the Trump administration of targeting political opponents. Minnesota Governor Tim Waltz referred to ICE agents as a “modern Gestapo,” raising concerns over enforcement actions.