The AI Extension of Trump's Mass Deportation Plan: A New Immigration Crackdown

As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House, his promise to deport millions of unauthorized immigrants has raised concerns about the potential scale and efficiency of such an operation. While the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in immigration enforcement is not new, the upcoming administration's approach may significantly expand its deployment, potentially transforming immigration crackdowns. This article explores how Trump's mass deportation plan, bolstered by AI, could extend immigration surveillance and enforcement, and the ethical implications this may entail.



AI has already been integrated into immigration enforcement under previous administrations. For instance, the Biden administration employed AI algorithms like the "Hurricane Score" to assess immigrants' flight risk, and mobile apps like SmartLINK for facial recognition and geolocation tracking (AP, 2024). However, Trump's more aggressive stance on immigration could lead to an unprecedented expansion of AI use in mass deportation efforts.

AI could assist in identifying and locating undocumented immigrants by analyzing large datasets, predicting flight risk, and tracking movements. Facial recognition and geolocation data through mobile apps could helpBorder Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents target and detain immigrants more efficiently. Moreover, AI could predict and mitigate potential logistical challenges, such as resource allocation and transportation, by analyzing data on immigrant locations, family structures, and court dates.



While AI offers efficiency and accuracy, it also raises ethical concerns. Trump's mass deportation plan, if implemented using AI tools, could lead to mass surveillance, privacy infringements, and unfairness. AI algorithms can inadvertently perpetuate biases, as seen in the "Hurricane Score" which may unfairly target immigrants. Additionally, tools like SmartLINK that track immigrants' movements could infringe upon privacy. To mitigate these issues, DHS should ensure diverse input data and regular audits, and prioritize privacy protection.

Furthermore, AI should augment, not replace, human decision-making to uphold due process and human rights. Careful regulation and oversight are essential to prevent AI from becoming an instrument of systemic bias and discrimination.

In conclusion, Trump's mass deportation plan, supported by AI, could significantly alter immigration crackdowns. While AI offers potential benefits in terms of efficiency and accuracy, it also poses ethical challenges that must be addressed to ensure fair and humane treatment of immigrants. As the incoming administration prepares to implement its immigration policies, it is crucial to consider the implications of AI-driven surveillance and enforcement, and to adopt responsible and ethical practices.