Donald Trump outsources his mass deportation dreams to a new, even more irresponsible lieutenant

The Trump administration is relying more and more on artificial intelligence (AI) as a key tool to achieve its strict immigration enforcement goals, which include securing the border and carrying out large-scale deportations. After passing the Big Beautiful Bill into law, the administration is now ready to use advanced technology to its full potential, with AI playing a central role in speeding up every step of the immigration process, from arrests to deportations.

AI is no longer seen as an experimental technology but as a must-have for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), according to Fox News. The White House’s recently announced America’s AI Action Plan calls AI a necessity for national strength, highlighting its importance for security and efficiency. For immigration enforcement, the plan’s focus on speed, security, and sovereignty fits perfectly with what DHS agencies need.

Much of the current immigration system still uses old-fashioned paper records, with physical files sometimes being moved long distances. AI is expected to modernize these outdated methods. DHS already uses more than 200 AI systems for critical tasks. Some of these systems help spot human traffickers in real time, while others assist with casework and detect fraud. However, they’re not perfect.

AI may hold the power to deport anyone

One clear example of AI’s impact is MetroStar’s work to modernize U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). These changes have streamlined the process without checks. While good things are cut out like identity checks and moving paperwork online, repeated interviews to ensure information is correct are almost gone. These changes are crucial for making sure the government isn’t deporting people for no reason.

Outside of government agencies, private companies are also helping with real-time enforcement. Firms like Airship AI are using object detection technology at the southern border to catch human smugglers, drug traffickers, and people entering illegally.

The push for AI is further driven by an executive order from President Trump earlier this year, which requires DHS to screen all foreign nationals applying for visas or other benefits as thoroughly as possible to stop terrorist and security threats. Instead of having a human make sure it’s done correctly, AI is seen as useful for removing uncertainties and reducing backlogs, making this strict screening process a lot less secure.

While AI can greatly speed up enforcement, its long-term use needs careful thought. The technology doesn’t have enough safeguards, and we’ve seen too many mistakes from this administration. If the future is in AI, a human needs to be at the helm.