Report: ICE Planning to Double Immigration Detention Space Before December
breitbart.com -- Saturday, August 16, 2025, 10:28:18 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: Immigration Policy & Border Issues
Federal documents show that before the end of the year, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is planning to double its detention space for immigrants scheduled for deportation.
The plans are in motion to enlarge detention space from the 50,000 capacity at the end of the Biden administration to more than 107,000 by the end of the year, the Washington Post reported.
ICE has released plans to open new detention centers in parts of the country that have not hosted such facilities in the past. The plans also include a large number of "soft-sided" housing units -- presumably meaning tents -- to grow detention spaces quickly.
The initial plans are being funded by the $45 billion negotiated by Congress in the recently passed "Big Beautiful Bill." The funding has allowed ICE to quickly reach out to award contracts to construction and management companies to begin ramping up construction plans.
Two of the companies receiving contracts include Geo Group, currently ICE's largest contractor, and CoreCivic, one of the nation's largest private prison managers.
The states with the most space include Texas, Louisiana, California, Georgia, and Arizona. Other states preparing to see an enlargement of facilities include Colorado, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Florida, Mississippi, and 38 other states and U.S. territories.
The plans will be augmenting contracts already awarded.
In July, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced a $1.26 billion plan to build a center at Fort Bliss, which is near El Paso, Texas, and encompasses more than 1.12 million acres of land along the border with Mexico and also features an airport. The new facility will have room for 5,000 beds and will likely serve as a deportation hub for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
That same month, plans were announced to place detention housing at a military base in Indiana's Camp Atterbury and another at New Jersey's Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.
In April, the Trump administration said it is far cheaper to expand detention facilities and spend the money to initiate mass deportations than it is to simply pay the costs of allowing illegal migration.
With the $45 billion in the congressional budget bill, Trump officials compared that cost to what illegal aliens cost otherwise, a cost that is estimated at more than $150 billion to the American taxpayers.
"Each illegal alien or U.S.-born child of illegal aliens costs the U.S. $8,776 annually," the latest estimate from the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) states. "Evidence shows that tax payments by illegal aliens cover only around a sixth of the costs they create at all levels in this country."
Sign Our PetitionThe recent report detailing ICE's plans to double its immigration detention space before the end of the year raises significant concerns about the trajectory of U.S. immigration policy. The implications of such an expansion are far-reaching, as it reflects a punitive approach to immigration that aligns more with a militarized border state than with the principles of compassion and justice. As the Biden administration positions itself as a progressive alternative to its predecessor, this decision calls into question the administration's commitment to human rights and the humane treatment of immigrants and asylum seekers.
Historically, the U.S. has maintained a paradoxical stance on immigration, oscillating between periods of openness and periods of severe restriction. The current plans to increase detention capacity echo past practices during the Obama administration, which, despite its focus on comprehensive immigration reform, oversaw record-level deportations. This historical context is crucial for understanding the ongoing struggles faced by immigrant communities. The expansion of detention facilities further entrenches a system that prioritizes punishment over protection, reflecting a broader pattern of systemic racism and xenophobia.
The decision to build new detention centers in areas that have not previously hosted such facilities is particularly alarming. It signals a normalization of mass detention, which has been criticized by numerous human rights organizations as a violation of fundamental human rights. The use of "soft-sided" housing units, likely tents, to house detainees raises additional ethical questions about the conditions in which vulnerable populations will be held. This approach is reminiscent of the migrant camps seen during the Trump era, where conditions were often inhumane and unsanitary. It is essential to remember that these facilities are not just spaces of holding; they are environments that impact the mental and physical well-being of individuals and families seeking safety.
Moreover, the financial aspect of these expansions cannot be overlooked. The allocation of $45 billion from the recent congressional budget bill to bolster ICE's infrastructure reflects a disturbing prioritization of punitive measures over social services that could benefit communities. The contracts awarded to private prison companies like Geo Group and CoreCivic further underscore the profit motives intrinsic to the detention system. The commodification of human lives through for-profit detention centers raises serious ethical concerns, as these entities have a vested interest in maintaining high incarceration rates for immigrants. This relationship exemplifies a broader trend in U.S. politics where corporate interests often outweigh the rights and dignity of marginalized populations.
Finally, it is imperative to challenge the narratives propagated by those in favor of expanding detention space, particularly the misleading claims about the costs associated with undocumented immigrants. The assertion that immigrants are a financial burden fails to acknowledge the economic contributions they make to society and the fact that many undocumented immigrants pay taxes, albeit without the same protections afforded to citizens. Engaging in these conversations about immigration requires a commitment to factual accuracy and a willingness to dismantle harmful stereotypes. By understanding the historical and social contexts of these issues, advocates can better equip themselves to confront right-wing arguments and promote a vision of immigration rooted in justice, equity, and human rights.
In conclusion, the impending expansion of ICE’s detention capacity is not merely a policy decision; it is a reflection of the ongoing struggles for justice and dignity that immigrant communities face. As advocates for social justice, it is our responsibility to bring attention to the implications of these actions, to educate others about the historical context of U.S. immigration policy, and to challenge the narratives that perpetuate fear and division. By doing so, we can contribute to a more humane and just society that respects the rights of all individuals, regardless of their immigration status.
The recent report detailing Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) plans to double its immigration detention space raises significant concerns about the trajectory of U.S. immigration policy, especially in the context of the current administration's commitment to reform. Historically, immigration enforcement in the United States has been marked by an oscillation between more punitive measures and attempts at reform. The increase in detention capacity to over 107,000 beds, specifically the decision to employ "soft-sided" housing units, signals a troubling shift towards a more aggressive stance on immigration, harkening back to the policies seen during the Trump administration. This development warrants scrutiny, not only because of its potential impact on immigrant communities but also due to its implications for the broader values of justice and compassion that many Americans hold dear.
At the heart of this issue lies the unsettling reality of private prison involvement in immigration enforcement. Companies like Geo Group and CoreCivic, which have profited from the detention of immigrants, underscore a troubling intersection of profit and punitive immigration practices. This reliance on private contractors raises ethical questions about the commodification of human lives and the prioritization of profit over humane treatment. The expansion of detention facilities, particularly in states that have historically seen little such infrastructure, serves to normalize the practice of detaining individuals for civil violations, reinforcing a culture of fear and uncertainty among immigrant populations. It is crucial for advocates and concerned citizens to shine a light on this issue, emphasizing the need for humane alternatives to detention that respect the dignity of all individuals, regardless of their immigration status.
The financial justification for these expansions, often framed in terms of cost savings over deportation, points to a broader ideological battle over immigration in America. The assertion that illegal migration incurs a hefty financial burden on taxpayers serves as a rallying cry for those supporting stricter immigration policies. However, this narrative often oversimplifies and misrepresents the contributions that immigrants make to the economy. Communities thrive on diversity, and immigrants play integral roles in various sectors, contributing to economic growth and cultural enrichment. As such, it is essential to counter these narratives with data that highlights the positive impacts of immigration, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of the complexities within the immigration debate.
As engaged citizens, we can take meaningful action against these developments by advocating for comprehensive immigration reform that prioritizes humane treatment, community support, and pathways to citizenship. Writing to representatives, participating in local advocacy groups, and attending town hall meetings are effective ways to voice concerns about the expansion of detention facilities and the policies that underpin them. Additionally, supporting organizations that provide legal assistance to immigrants can empower those affected by these policies and challenge the narrative that frames immigrants as burdens rather than valuable members of our society. Collective action, informed discourse, and grassroots organizing can help shift the conversation around immigration from one of fear and division to one of solidarity and understanding.
Moreover, education plays a critical role in shaping public opinion on immigration. Engaging in discussions, sharing resources, and participating in community forums can help dismantle the myths surrounding immigration and the costs associated with it. By fostering an environment of empathy and understanding, we can challenge the prevailing narratives that underpin policies like those proposed by ICE. Building alliances with immigrant rights organizations, labor unions, and social justice groups can amplify our voices and further the cause of a more just immigration system. Ultimately, the fight against the expansion of ICE's detention capabilities is not just about immigration policy; it is about upholding the values of humanity, justice, and community that define us as a nation.
In light of the reported plans by ICE to double immigration detention space, it is essential to engage in meaningful actions that advocate for the rights and dignity of immigrants. Here are some ideas and concrete steps that individuals can take to address this issue:
### Personal Actions
1. **Educate Yourself and Others**: - Read up on immigration policies, the impact of detention centers, and the broader implications for communities. - Share this information through social media, community groups, or local gatherings to raise awareness.
2. **Support Immigrant Rights Organizations**: - Donate to or volunteer with organizations that support immigrants, such as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), the National Immigration Law Center (NILC), or local immigrant advocacy groups.
3. **Participate in Local Activism**: - Join or organize local rallies or protests against the expansion of ICE detention centers. - Use platforms like Meetup or Eventbrite to find or create events in your community.
### Exact Actions
1. **Sign Petitions**: - **Action Against ICE Detention Expansion**: - Visit Change.org and search for petitions related to opposing the expansion of ICE detention centers. One example is “Stop the Expansion of ICE Detention Facilities”. 2. **Contact Elected Officials**: - Write to your local representatives and senators to express your opposition to the expansion of ICE facilities. Here’s how: - **U.S. Representative**: Find your representative's contact information [here](https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative). - **U.S. Senator**: Find your senator's contact information [here](https://www.senate.gov/senators/senators-contact.htm). - **Sample Email**: ``` Subject: Oppose the Expansion of ICE Detention Facilities
Dear [Official's Name],
I am writing to express my strong opposition to ICE’s plans to double immigration detention space across the country. The expansion of these facilities not only undermines the rights and dignity of immigrants but also diverts necessary resources away from vital community services.
I urge you to take a stand against this expansion and advocate for humane immigration policies that prioritize family unity and community support. Please consider supporting legislation that limits the use of detention as a means of immigration enforcement.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent issue.
Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Email] ```
3. **Engage with Local Media**: - Write letters to the editor or op-eds to local newspapers regarding the expansion of ICE detention facilities. Share personal stories or perspectives to humanize the issue. - Example publication to contact: - **The New York Times**: letters@nytimes.com - **Los Angeles Times**: letters@latimes.com
4. **Organize Community Forums**: - Host or participate in community discussions about immigration issues, focusing on the detrimental impact of detention centers. Use platforms like Zoom or local community centers.
5. **Advocate for Legislative Change**: - Support and advocate for bills that promote comprehensive immigration reform and limit the use of detention. Stay informed on local and national legislation by following organizations like the Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC).
6. **Communicate with Local Businesses**: - Encourage local businesses to engage in fair employment practices for immigrants. Write to business owners and suggest they support immigrant workers.
7. **Participate in "Know Your Rights" Workshops**: - Attend or help organize workshops that educate immigrants about their rights in the face of ICE encounters. Partner with local organizations that provide legal assistance.
By actively engaging in these actions, individuals can contribute to a broader movement advocating for justice and humane treatment of immigrants while opposing the expansion of ICE detention facilities.