Staff Reports
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt fiercely defended President Trump’s immigration crackdown during a heated exchange with reporters. She blasted attempts to compare foreign terrorist deportations with routine removal of illegal immigrants, declaring “there are two different definitions” for national security threats and those violating immigration laws.
Leavitt slammed what she called “media theatrics” over the deportation of Maryland resident Abrego Garcia, identified as an MS-13 gang member. She contrasted his case with Rachel Morin, a Maryland mother murdered by an illegal immigrant, accusing Democrats of prioritizing criminals over American victims. “They care more about this gang member than a butchered American mother,” Leavitt stated.
The press secretary revealed 261 recent deportees included 137 foreign terrorists and 23 MS-13 operatives under the Alien Enemies Act. She emphasized these removals targeted individuals “poisoning our communities with fentanyl and gang violence.” Leavitt confirmed the administration would expand its “national defense area” along the southern border by 90 miles in Texas.
When challenged about due process concerns, Leavitt accused reporters of spreading “fake outrage” and vowed the administration would “deport every violent illegal alien.” She cited President Trump’s executive orders authorizing military resources to secure borders and fast-track removals. “Safety isn’t negotiable,” she declared.
Leavitt specifically criticized CNN’s coverage, alleging liberal media bias distorts immigration realities. She mocked journalists for “tears over deportation flights” while ignoring fentanyl deaths and rape cases linked to illegal immigration. The press secretary promised tougher vetting for White House press credentials to combat “anti-Trump activists masquerading as journalists.”
The briefing turned confrontational when Leavitt rejected claims about mistakenly deported individuals. She brandished DHS reports showing 98% accuracy in recent operations and challenged critics to “name one innocent person removed.” The administration plans 30 new deportation flights monthly, prioritizing sanctuary cities.
Leavitt closed by announcing President Trump’s upcoming speech unveiling “the largest immigration enforcement surge in U.S. history.” She warned blue-state governors refusing cooperation would face federal takeover of their police forces. “You can’t claim to support law enforcement while protecting murderers,” she fired at Democratic leaders.
This clash comes as deportation rates hit 72,000 monthly – triple Biden-era numbers – with 90% approval among Republican voters. While liberals scream “cruelty,” conservatives hail Leavitt’s no-nonsense approach as long-overdue justice for victims of border chaos. The administration vows to keep its promise: America First means removing threats first.
