Utah Governor to Back Trump in Removing Criminal Illegal Immigrants

November 27, 2024 TruthUSA

Democrats and other immigrant-rights advocates expressed concerns that the governor’s announcement will instill fear in the state’s immigrant communities.

Utah’s governor declared on Nov. 26 that he will back the incoming Trump administration’s deportation policy for criminal illegal immigrants in the state.

Gov. Spencer Cox stated that the state’s efforts, guided by five priorities, will align with the president-elect in removing illegal immigrants who have committed crimes and pose a threat to public safety.

“When it comes to immigration policy, the safety of Utah residents is my top priority,” said Cox in a press release. “Utah will continue to welcome refugees and immigrants who enter the country lawfully, and we will continue pushing for reforms to the asylum process and for more visas to support our workforce needs. We have zero tolerance, however, for those who demonstrate a threat to public safety while in the country illegally.”

The Republican governor cited challenges posed by illegal immigration in his state and anticipated changes in federal policy.

“Federal immigration authorities have failed in their duty to the American people and they’ve left states and localities to independently manage the fallout of those failures,” said Cox. “We’re grateful to have an administration coming in who will take these problems seriously.”

According to the governor’s office, illegal immigration has led to public safety threats and a significant cost to Utah taxpayers.