Governor Spencer Cox of Utah announced his support for the incoming Trump administration’s policy of deporting criminal illegal immigrants from the state on Nov. 26. This decision has sparked fear in the state’s immigrant communities, according to Democrats and other immigrant-rights advocates.
Cox stated that the state’s efforts will prioritize deporting illegal immigrants who have committed crimes and pose a threat to public safety. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of Utah residents and expressed zero tolerance for those who demonstrate a threat to public safety while in the country illegally.
The governor highlighted the challenges posed by illegal immigration in Utah and expressed anticipation for federal policy changes. He cited public safety threats and the substantial financial burden on Utah taxpayers resulting from illegal immigration.
According to Cox’s statement, illegal immigrants make up approximately 4.6 percent of the state’s prison population, costing nearly $16 million annually. The majority of crimes committed by illegal immigrants in prison are sex offenses and murder. The statement also mentioned an increase in drug distribution and the presence of violent criminal organizations in the state.
Cox’s plan includes five priorities, such as identifying criminal illegal immigrants in the justice system, training authorities to identify them, and collaborating with federal agencies for deportation. He also aims to work on long-term solutions with the state’s Fentanyl Task Force and the Department of Homeland Security to address the issue.
In response to Cox’s announcement, Democratic lawmakers and organizations criticized the policy, expressing concerns about equating immigration with criminality and creating fear in undocumented communities. They emphasized the importance of building trust between law enforcement and immigrant communities to ensure public safety and protect the rights of all residents.
Aden Batar, director of Migration and Refugee Services for Catholic Community Services of Utah, expressed concern about the impact of Cox’s announcement on immigrant communities, noting that it could exacerbate existing fears. He stressed the need for comprehensive solutions and urged local leaders to leave immigration enforcement to federal authorities.
Overall, Cox’s decision to support the Trump administration’s policy of deporting criminal illegal immigrants has generated mixed reactions, with some praising the focus on public safety and others raising concerns about the potential consequences for immigrant communities in Utah. Can you please rephrase this sentence?
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