Biden's immigration enforcement increased significantly in Massachusetts

Immigration enforcement in Massachusetts has been a topic of increasing attention since President Donald Trump took office. Reports indicate a rise in arrests and detentions by federal authorities, particularly by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). However, data reveals a more complex situation in Massachusetts. The number of "Notices to Appear," which are requests for individuals to attend immigration court, has varied between the two administrations. From January 1 to January 19, during President Joe Biden's early days in office, there were 617 notices filed. This significantly exceeds the 153 notices filed during a similar period under Trump from January 20 to January 31. Looking at detention numbers, the Plymouth County Correctional Facility is currently the only facility reporting immigrant detentions in the state. The average daily number of detained immigrants there has increased from 172 a year ago to 390 last month. While Trump promised to deport millions of undocumented immigrants, he managed to deport 1.9 million during his first term. In contrast, Biden deported 4 million people, largely due to a dramatic increase in illegal border crossings during his administration. This situation illustrates the shifting dynamics of immigration enforcement in Massachusetts and across the country.