Former President Donald Trump outlined his plans for mass deportation during a rally in Aurora, Colorado. He expressed his intention to utilize the 1798 Alien Enemies Act as a tool for this operation. Trump named his initiative “Operation Aurora,” after the Colorado community where he delivered his speech. He also mentioned a similar effort by law enforcement in San Antonio, which was aimed at combating the transnational Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TDA).
The Alien Enemies Act was enacted during a time when the United States was on the verge of war with France. It grants authorities the power to detain noncitizens under specific circumstances, including situations involving foreign invasions or incursions against US territory. This act has been invoked during significant conflicts such as the War of 1812, World War I, and World War II.
Trump vowed to deploy elite squads from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Border Patrol, and federal law enforcement agencies to apprehend and deport every illegal alien gang member in the country. He received cheers from the crowd when he declared that any deported individuals who returned would face a 10-year prison sentence without parole.
During his speech, Trump invited Cindy Romero onto the stage. Romero had captured viral video footage of criminal activity taking place in her Aurora apartment building, which garnered widespread media attention. She emphasized that these issues affected not only her but also everyone present at the rally.
While there were many supporters attending Trump’s event at Gaylord Rockies Resort and Convention Center, there were also protesters outside expressing their dissenting views. Prior to Trump’s visit, Mayor Mike Coffman of Aurora stated that reports of crime in their city were exaggerated.
Illegal immigrant crime emerged as a prominent theme throughout speeches delivered by Colorado Republicans preceding Trump’s address. U.S. Reps Lauren Boebert and Greg Lopez discussed Venezuelan gangs extorting and harassing people while accusing media outlets of downplaying or denying these criminal activities within their state.
Other notable figures who took part in addressing attendees included Colorado GOP Chairman Dave Williams, Douglas County Sheriff Darren Weekly, Jeff Crank running for Congress in District 5th District), Gabe Evans challenging Rep Yadira Caraveo (D-Colo.) in District 8th District), and Stephen Miller—a longtime adviser to Trump known for his stance against illegal immigration.
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