WASHINGTON (AP) — The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is halting the purchase of new warehouses aimed at housing immigrants as it reviews contracts inked by the previous administration headed by Secretary Kristi Noem, according to a senior DHS official.
Just days after the swearing-in of the new Secretary, Markwayne Mullin, who will oversee a department marked by tumult during Noem's time and pivotal to Trump's mass deportation plans, DHS announced this crucial step. The official, who chose to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of the matter, stated this pause intends to ensure thorough investigation of all related contracts.
Responding to inquiries regarding this pause, DHS confirmed in a statement that, as with any transition, we are reviewing agency policies and proposals. Mullin has expressed a desire to cooperate with community leaders and consider their perspectives as stated during his confirmation hearings.
Under Noem's guidance, DHS established an ambitious plan to expand detention capacity to accommodate 92,000 individuals by acquiring eight large-scale centers capable of holding thousands of detainees. However, this plan faced backlash, with many citizens expressing moral objections and concerns regarding the impact on local resources.
So far, 11 warehouses in states including Arizona, Georgia, and Texas have been acquired, with the federal government spending over $1 billion in the process. While some communities are just learning about these developments, Mullin acknowledged the challenges during his confirmation, emphasizing the need for improved communication with local leaders.
As the DHS reevaluates these expansion efforts, the agency’s strategies regarding immigrant housing will likely continue to remain in the spotlight.
