In a bold move to address the persistent issue of illegal immigration, former President Donald Trump declared during speeches in Coachella, California, and Prescott Valley, Arizona, that he intends to invoke the Alien Enemies Act of 1798. This rarely used statute grants the president unilateral authority to detain and deport individuals from nations deemed hostile to the United States. By utilizing this 226-year-old law, Trump aims to dismantle what he calls “migrant criminal networks” operating within American borders.
PRESIDENT TRUMP: “I will invoke the Alien Enemies Act of 1798”
The Alien Enemies Act was originally enacted in 1798 as part of the Alien and Sedition Acts, designed to empower the U.S. government during a time of anticipated conflict with France. Though its use has been largely dormant in modern times, Trump argues that the law remains a critical tool to safeguard national security, particularly in the face of what he perceives as the growing threat of unchecked illegal immigration.
PRESIDENT TRUMP: Anyone who would import criminal gangs to OCCUPY America cannot ask to be President.
Anyone who orchestrated an invasion of America cannot lead America.
Kamala Harris’s reign of terror ends the day I take the oath of office!
🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/Tfh8SOOkLM
— Trump War Room (@TrumpWarRoom) October 13, 2024
Trump’s announcement is seen by his supporters as a reaffirmation of his strong stance on national security. Speaking in front of large crowds, Trump emphasized that “criminal alien networks” pose a significant threat to the safety and stability of the nation. He vowed to root out these networks and take aggressive action against those who exploit America’s borders.

“We will target and dismantle every migrant criminal network operating on American soil,” Trump stated. “This isn’t about politics. This is about the safety of our citizens, and I will use every legal tool available to protect our country.”
The Alien Enemies Act, while largely a historical relic, could be adapted for modern purposes in the current immigration crisis. The statute allows the president to declare citizens or nationals of foreign countries to be “alien enemies” if their country is at war or engaged in hostile actions toward the United States. Trump and his allies argue that the influx of illegal immigrants from certain countries, many of which have adversarial relations with the U.S., could be viewed through this legal lens.
PRESIDENT TRUMP: “Under Kamala Harris, 13,099 illegal alien convicted murderers are roaming free in the United States and 425,000 convicted migrant criminals — We have stupid leaders… We can’t have another four years of stupid, incompetent leaders.” pic.twitter.com/gDlT0MTRFb
— Trump War Room (@TrumpWarRoom) October 13, 2024
By framing illegal immigrants as part of hostile foreign entities, Trump aims to bypass lengthy legal processes that often delay deportations. This move, while controversial, aligns with his long-standing commitment to restoring the rule of law and cracking down on those who violate immigration statutes.
Conservative commentators have largely praised Trump’s initiative, arguing that the Alien Enemies Act could serve as an essential measure to restore law and order in a country that has struggled with rising crime rates linked to illegal immigration. The law provides Trump with the executive power to act decisively, which his supporters argue is necessary to address the border crisis and protect American workers from the economic effects of illegal immigration.
🚨 BREAKING: The National Border Patrol Council ENDORSES President Trump!
“If we allow Border Czar Harris to win this election, every city, every community in this great country, is going to go to hell.” pic.twitter.com/YAP2lOJwDf
— Trump War Room (@TrumpWarRoom) October 13, 2024
Trump’s plan to invoke the Alien Enemies Act aligns with a broader goal of returning to the principles of law and order. His base has consistently supported efforts to enforce strict immigration laws and reduce the influence of foreign nationals who violate American sovereignty. By invoking a 226-year-old law, Trump signals his commitment to pursuing unconventional but effective means to resolve the crisis.
The border issue remains a key political battleground. Trump’s approach reflects a growing frustration among conservative voters, many of whom believe the federal government has been too lenient on illegal immigration for far too long. The former president’s speech sends a clear message that his administration, if re-elected, would prioritize immigration enforcement in ways that align with historical precedents while utilizing the full force of the executive branch to secure the nation.
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