Trump Administration Expands Immigration Detention Capacity Nationwide

The Trump administration has intensified its efforts to expand immigration detention and deportation, aligning with campaign promises for large-scale enforcement. Private prison companies are being enlisted to increase detention capacity, especially in states like Louisiana, raising concerns about detainee welfare and access to legal representation. Aggressive tactics have been reported, including raids in upstate New York targeting undocumented individuals and their families, resulting in the detention and deportation of people with longstanding ties to the U.S., including children and legal residents. The administration has also targeted foreign-born students and activists, particularly those involved in pro-Palestinian protests, using obscure immigration laws to justify detentions and attempted deportations for constitutionally protected speech. In response, states like Vermont are moving to strengthen legal protections for children whose parents are detained, with new legislation aimed at streamlining guardianship processes. Legal advocates argue these measures are necessary to mitigate the harm caused to migrant families under the current enforcement climate.