Summary
The number of immigrants in detention in the United States has increased by more than 50% since President Trump took office, reaching a new record of 60,000 people in long-term detention. This figure excludes many detainees held in facilities not officially counted by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The rise in detention numbers is linked to expanded immigration enforcement efforts.
Key Facts
- Immigrant detention numbers have jumped over 50% since President Trump began his term.
- A record 60,000 immigrants are currently in long-term detention, according to recent government data.
- The DHS tally does not include detainees in certain facilities like "Alligator Alcatraz" and military bases.
- The highest detention figure before this was 57,861 in June 2023.
- During Trump's first term, the prior record was 55,654 in August 2019.
- Some facilities, like the one in Florida, are significantly undercounted in official records.
- Military bases are being used for detention, with Fort Bliss soon hosting 1,000 migrants.
- Hundreds more are held temporarily in holding rooms across the country, not included in official counts.
