The highest order of business for the second Trump administration is a continuation of his 2016 campaign promises. Secure the southern border, and deport every illegal immigrant in this country. As the second term begins, it's obvious this is priority one.

Trump gives a speech
Credit: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images
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Obviously, Arizona is a major hub for this activity, being nestled up against the U.S./Mexico border. A massive push for this in Phoenix, however, has led to mayhem and chaos across the state.

Mass Detainments in Phoenix

On May 21st, 2025, several people were taken into custody by assumed ICE agents outside of the Immigration Court office in Downtown Phoenix. The agents wore face coverings and plainclothes, with no identifying marks whatsoever, aside from the occasional "We're federal officers" comment.

Detainees were then brought to an unmarked white van before they were shipped off to who knows where. Protestors have begun amassing in the city, carrying signs that claim "Deport Fascists, Not Families", and "Abolish ICE".

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How Did This Happen?

According to immigration attorneys, the federal government has been dismissing any and all pending immigration cases. This means no one, even those here legally, can make a case for their citizenship in front of court. If they don't show up, they're here illegally. If they do, they're arrested outside of the court. It's a lose-lose situation.

An ICE Agent
Credit: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement via Getty Images
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Agents are relying on these cases being thrown out to make detainments, as it gives legal precedent to detain any immigrants they see fit. According to attorneys, most of those detained at the immigration court office were not criminals, simply families trying to find a better life here legally, but when the legal route is taken away at a federal scale, they have no avenue to contest their arrests.

[FOX 10][AZ Mirror][@BTnewsroom via Twitter]

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