President Donald Trump signed an executive order late Wednesday. It ends the use of taxpayer money for federal resources supporting illegal immigration. No more federal funds for illegal aliens.
The administration says it’s about protecting American taxpayers. "Taxpayer resources are used to protect the interests of American citizens, not illegal aliens," the order states.
Under the order, agencies must cut off federally funded programs benefiting illegal aliens. No federal money for "sanctuary" policies. Departments must review and end all financial support.
"My Administration will uphold the rule of law," the order declares. "We will defend against waste and protect benefits for American citizens in need, including individuals with disabilities and veterans."
The White House backed that up in a fact sheet. "President Trump is committed to safeguarding Federal public benefits for American citizens who are truly in need, including individuals with disabilities and veterans," it stated.
Illegal immigration has surged in recent years. The cost? A massive $451 billion since January 2021, according to the U.S. House Homeland Security Committee.
The executive order references a report from the Federation for American Immigration Reform. It says taxpayers shell out $182 billion annually for 20 million illegal aliens and their children. Of that, $66.5 billion comes from federal funds, while $115.6 billion is from state and local governments.
A study from the Center for Immigration Studies adds more figures. One million illegal aliens could cost taxpayers $3 billion each year in welfare programs. By law, those benefits shouldn't be available.
However, some illegal aliens qualify for welfare. Those granted parole become "qualified aliens." That status allows them access to benefits, with full eligibility after five years.
Trump’s order takes aim at President Biden’s policies. It accuses his administration of "enabling" illegal immigration and funding it with taxpayer dollars.
Aerial images show illegal aliens crossing razor wire at the border. Some make it through and continue processing with Border Patrol agents. The crisis continues.
Federal and state taxpayers have paid a staggering $16.2 billion for Medicaid-funded emergency services for illegal aliens. That estimate comes from the Congressional Budget Office.
"The Biden Administration gave billions in taxpayer dollars to left-wing groups," the order claims. These groups helped facilitate illegal immigration and fought deportation orders.
FEMA alone has handed out over $1 billion to illegal aliens since 2021. That money was meant for disaster relief, but it went elsewhere.
Trump promised to secure the border. This executive order is his latest move to put America first.
"President Trump has delivered on his promise," the fact sheet states. "He has taken immediate action to end the previous Administration’s border crisis."