The Trump administration has significantly ramped up its immigration enforcement efforts, leading to a sharp increase in arrests and deportations. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reported record numbers of immigration arrests in July and August, with over 50,000 individuals detained in each month. According to data collected by the Deportation Data Project, more than half of those arrested had no prior interaction with law enforcement, and another 24 percent had faced legal charges but were never convicted. These findings have sparked debate, even among some Republicans in Congress, who argue that not all immigrants should be treated the same. For example, Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar (R-Fla.) has warned against grouping all immigrants together and urged a more nuanced approach. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been inconsistent in its public statements about how it prioritizes individuals for deportation. On social media platform X, DHS claimed that 70 percent of those arrested by ICE have criminal records. However, experts have disputed this figure, arguing that it has not been accurate since May 2025. In public appearances, some officials have avoided emphasizing the arrest of criminals, even though official media releases continue to focus on the deportation of individuals described as "the worst of the worst." Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin has stated that anyone who entered the U.S. illegally, regardless of their criminal background, should be deported. Border czar Tom Homan noted that slightly over half of those arrested are criminals but added that everyone is a potential target. The rise in arrests is attributed to a variety of factors, including a more discreet enforcement strategy and new tactics such as conducting arrests at airports. These methods are designed to avoid the public backlash that previously occurred with high-profile immigration raids. Experts suggest that the less visible operations are a response to criticism of past enforcement actions. Many of those arrested are individuals already in the immigration system, such as those who overstayed their visas due to delays in processing their cases. These individuals are considered easier targets because they are already known to the government. However, the increase in arrests has also led to criticism, even in traditionally Republican states like Florida. Some Republicans, such as Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-Fla.), support stronger border security but have acknowledged the possibility of overreach in enforcement. Rep. Salazar has highlighted the economic contributions of undocumented immigrants in various industries and expressed concern that the administration is not recognizing their value to the economy.