Trump’s Travel Ban Applauded
Acting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Director Todd Lyons defended President Donald Trump’s decision to expand U.S. travel restrictions this week, saying the move is focused on public safety and national security, not race.
Appearing Wednesday on Newsmax’s “Rob Schmitt Tonight,” Lyons responded to criticism from Democrats and immigration advocacy groups after President Trump announced expanded restrictions covering 20 additional countries. The update brings the total number of affected nations to 39.
The announcement followed heightened security concerns after a deadly shooting in Washington last month that killed two National Guard members, renewing debate over border enforcement and terrorist threats.
“This is not about race,” Lyons said. “This is about protecting the American people and making sure we are properly vetting who enters this country.”
Administration Says Vetting Comes First
Lyons stressed that Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has taken a firm stance on border security, making clear that individuals who pose a potential risk will not be admitted into the United States.
“She’s been very clear,” Lyons said. “Anyone who could be a threat to this country will not be allowed in.”
According to administration officials, the expanded travel restrictions are intended to strengthen screening procedures and prevent dangerous individuals from exploiting weaknesses in the immigration system.
Lessons From Overseas Attacks
Lyons pointed to recent violent incidents in Europe and other regions as examples of what the United States must work to prevent.
“We’ve seen knife attacks, car rammings, and bombings in major cities where immigration controls failed,” he said. “We cannot allow that to happen here.”
He also referenced reports that Paris canceled its New Year’s Eve celebrations due to security concerns tied to a possible terrorist threat.
“That’s not something Americans should have to live with,” Lyons said. “We should not give in to terrorism.”
ICE’s Role in Counterterrorism
Lyons reminded viewers that ICE was created in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks and remains one of the nation’s largest federal law enforcement agencies.
“ICE was born out of 9/11,” he said. “Our mission is to identify and stop threats before Americans are harmed.”
Criticism of Previous Border Policies
Lyons contrasted the current administration’s approach with what he described as lax enforcement under the Biden administration, arguing that a porous border creates opportunities for terrorists and criminal networks.
“We have to constantly vet individuals, especially from high-risk regions like Afghanistan and Somalia,” Lyons said. “If safeguards are weakened, bad actors will take advantage.”
The Trump administration maintains that firm travel restrictions and strong vetting standards are essential to protecting national security while preserving lawful immigration.
