What Operation Aurora, Alien Enemies Act could mean in Pennsylvania
Donald Trump’s Operation Aurora, announced during a rally in Colorado, aims to quickly deport undocumented immigrant gang members by invoking the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, a law originally designed for use during wartime.
So, what could this mean for Pennsylvania, a key battleground state as the Nov. 5 presidential election approaches?
What does Project Aurora mean for Pennsylvania?
Donald Trump’s Operation Aurora pitch could have significant impact in swing state Pennsylvania, where some voters may see it as a necessary public safety measure, and others may consider it an overreach that unfairly targets immigrants.
Trump has made immigration a major talking point during his many rallies, including several visits to Pennsylvania.
Operation Aurora could resonate with supporters in some communities where immigration policy is viewed as a key difference between Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris. But, it’s likely to harden anti-Trump sentiments in urban centers like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh where immigration is seen as more of a human-rights issue.
What Is the Alien Enemies Act?
The Alien Enemies Act allows the U.S. government to detain or deport nationals from enemy countries during times of war. Originally passed in 1798, this law was designed for national security, giving the government broad powers to act against those deemed threats during conflicts.
Donald Trump announced at a rally in Aurora, Colorado, that he plans to extend the use of this law to deport undocumented criminals, particularly gang members.
What Is Operation Aurora?
Operation Aurora is Donald Trump’s proposal to deport violent immigrant gang members, such as those from Venezuelan criminal networks.
Trump claims the plan will make communities safer by removing dangerous criminals quickly. He also frames it as part of a larger strategy to strength immigration enforcement, focusing on areas he believes have been affected by gang violence.
His plan would also impose the death penalty when an immigrant kills an American citizen or a member of law enforcement.
Is Operation Aurora Part of Project 2025?
While Donald Trump has denied direct involvement with Project 2025, it and his Operation Aurora share key similarities on immigration.
Project 2025, developed by Trump allies, is a 900-page blueprint for overhauling the federal government in favor of conservative values. It includes sweeping changes to immigration policies, such as increasing ICE agents, expanding detention centers, and speeding up deportations.
Both Operation Aurora and Project 2025 suggest using military forces, such as the National Guard, to help with deportations, particularly in sanctuary cities — communities that limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
Philadelphia, an officially designated as a sanctuary city, and Pittsburgh both have policies limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Other municipalities across Pennsylvania also have practices in place to protect immigrants from federal immigration enforcement.