Costly Deportation Deals Under Scrutiny: Senate Report Criticizes Trump's Immigration Strategy

A Senate report criticizes former U.S. President Donald Trump's costly deportation agreements with foreign governments, highlighting $32 million spent and questioning the effectiveness, as only 300 individuals were deported to third countries. The report suggests these policies may instill fear, with little benefit, while incurring high taxpayer costs.

A critical Senate report has put the spotlight on former U.S. President Donald Trump's immigrant deportation agreements with foreign nations. Despite costing American taxpayers millions, these policies have resulted in minimal benefit, with just 300 individuals deported to third countries, as outlined by Senate Democrats on Friday.

The agreements, which have led to $32 million being allocated to only five countries, draw scrutiny as the administration aimed to deport millions from the U.S. The Democrats raised questions about third-country removals, which they claim pressure migrants to leave voluntarily. In one stark example, a Jamaican was deported to Eswatini at a significant cost, only to be sent back to Jamaica.

The Trump administration has defended its mass deportation efforts as fulfilling a campaign promise, but the Democrats' report suggests these policies lack proper oversight and benefits to taxpayers. Critics argue that these strategies instill fear among migrants, and call for greater transparency and accountability in handling such agreements.

(With inputs from agencies.)