President-elect Trump’s victory delivered a clear mandate: address the nation’s illegal immigration challenges decisively. Orlando Sonza, a former Republican congressional candidate from Ohio’s 1st District and attorney, believes Trump’s success hinges on strong leadership, fostering positive relationships, and unwavering adherence to the rule of law.
Sonza, in an interview with Fox News Digital, stated that the American people expect swift action. “The mandate is clear,” Sonza emphasized. “The illegal immigration problem needs fixing, and it needs fixing now.” He identified a significant hurdle: the resistance of some public officials in liberal jurisdictions who actively defy federal immigration laws through sanctuary city policies.
“President Trump’s leadership will be critical here,” Sonza explained. “Sanctuary cities and jurisdictions shielding illegal immigrants, many of whom are criminals, undermine national security and community safety. Holding these entities accountable is essential for restoring the rule of law.”
The incoming administration’s plan faces opposition from Democrats nationwide, who have vowed to resist Trump’s enforcement efforts through various means, including pushing sanctuary policies and attempting to create “Trump-proof” jurisdictions. Sonza firmly supports deportation as a necessary tool, not merely a policy option.
“Ultimately, it’s about rectifying a wrong,” Sonza argued. “We need to return to legal immigration. President Trump’s strategy prioritizes the deportation of dangerous individuals: human traffickers, drug cartel members, and violent gangs like MS-13. These groups exploit loopholes at the southern border, smuggling people, drugs, and weapons, inflicting devastating harm on our communities. Their deportation should be paramount.”
Beyond this high-priority group, Sonza highlights those who repeatedly violate the law by re-entering the U.S. after deportation, often with criminal records. He also points to the significant issue of visa overstays, accounting for nearly 40% of illegal immigration. “President Trump’s plan targets these areas to protect the integrity of lawful immigration and ensure fairness for those who follow the rules,” Sonza stated.
Critics have raised concerns about the financial cost of mass deportations. Sonza, a West Point graduate and former U.S. Army officer, initially shared these concerns but changed his perspective after further investigation. He now emphasizes the long-term fiscal burden of harboring illegal immigrants, estimating that it costs American taxpayers a staggering $151 billion annually.
Sonza believes Trump’s strategy for overcoming resistance includes not only withholding federal funding from sanctuary cities but also fostering strong cooperation between federal and local law enforcement agencies. “President Trump’s plan for this cooperation is crucial for protecting communities while upholding the law,” he said, adding that he expects smoother cooperation than many anticipate, as the plan resonates with many who want to solve the illegal immigration problem.
Sonza, the son of legal immigrants, emphasizes that the significant number of Americans who voted for Trump understand the pressing nature of the illegal immigration challenge. He believes the election represented a clear mandate for a return to law and order. Sonza is confident that Trump’s leadership, combined with the aggressive implementation of his deportation plan, will produce tangible results, improving safety, national security, and addressing critical issues like the opioid crisis exacerbated by illegal drug trafficking.
In closing, Sonza reiterates the need to restore a nation governed by laws, ensuring the safety of American citizens while fairly considering the interests of all, both those seeking legal entry and current citizens. This, he argues, requires upholding the rule of law and enforcing legal immigration processes.
