Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced Thursday that more than 1.6 million illegal immigrants have voluntarily left the United States since President Donald Trump returned to office — all within less than 200 days.
“This is massive,” Noem declared in a post on X. “It means safer streets, taxpayer savings, relief for schools and hospitals, and better job opportunities for Americans. Thank you @POTUS Trump!”
Noem credited Trump’s tough policies and his decision to end Biden’s “CBP One App,” which had been used to funnel migrants into the country. Under the new system, the app is repurposed to encourage self-deportation — offering $1,000 and a free flight home for those who leave voluntarily.
“The world got the message,” Noem said in a video. “They’re leaving on their own, which is the best outcome for American citizens.”
According to DHS data, as illegal immigrants left, 2.5 million American citizens secured new jobs within six to seven months. “That’s incredible growth for U.S. citizens who want to be employed and now have new opportunities for success,” Noem added.
Immigration Judges Removed
In a separate bombshell, Trump’s administration has dismissed roughly 50 federal immigration judges, sending a blunt signal that the days of activist judges undermining deportation laws are over. The dismissals came via a short three-line email with no fanfare, leaving many stunned.
One such judge, Jennifer Peyton of Chicago, told CBS she was shocked to learn she had been terminated despite receiving positive reviews. Critics claim the move is retaliatory — but supporters say it’s proof Trump is restoring order not only at the border but in America’s courtrooms.
The rapid decline in the illegal immigrant population is already being felt nationwide — from reduced strain on public services to a resurgence in local job markets. Trump’s allies say this is just the beginning of a full immigration reset.
