A former high‑ranking immigration official from the Trump administration has publicly called for the deportation of 106 million undocumented immigrants, a number that would represent almost one‑third of the U.S. population. the claim, made in January amid backlash over harsh raids and civilian deaths, was framed as a response to what the official said was widespread grassroots support.

106 Million vs. 11–16 Million: The Data Gap

According to the report, the former official’s figure of 106 million is “a gross exaggeration” and “not supported by any credible data.” The U .S. Census Bureau and the Department of Homeland Security routinely estimate the undocumented population at between 11 million and 16 million. The stark contrast between these numbers highlights a deliberate use of shock value to galvanize a political base, as the source notes.

January’s Turbulent Backdrop: Raids and Deaths

The remarks came at a time when the country was reeling from harsh immigration raids that led to the deaths of two U.S. citizens linked to enforcement actions . The source reports that the official dismissed conventional polls that did not show overwhelming support,instead claiming that his own assessment of “grassroots support” indicates that 90 % of the country desires mass deportations. This framing suggests a strategy of amplifying fringe sentiment to legitimize extreme policy.

Who Is the Unnamed “Grassroots” Voice?

The report raises the question of who is actually behind the purported 90 % support figure. No polls or surveys are cited, and the official’s claim appears to rely solely on his own assessment. the absence of verifiable data leaves readers uncertain about the legitimacy of the supposed public backing.

Implications for U.S. Immigration Policy

If such a narrative were taken at face value, it would demand a logistical overhaul of the U.S. immigration system,with deportations affecting a third of the population.. The source underscores that the figure is “unlikely to be feasible” and would “starkly contradict” official statistics. The call therefore serves more as a political statement than a realistic policy proposal.