In a joint press release issued this week, Governor Kevin Stitt and 25 other Republican governors expressed their readiness to utilize local law enforcement or the National Guard in assisting President Trump.
In a recent interview with Fox News, Stitt shared details about Oklahoma’s proactive initiative to support the incoming administration in addressing immigration issues. Dubbed “Operation Guardian,” this program aims to provide assistance and resources to effectively tackle immigration challenges.
Oklahoma Governor Stitt emphasized the importance of Operation Guardian as he stated, “That’s why I implemented Operation Guardian, to collaborate with President Trump from day one and ensure that we promptly remove illegal immigrants involved in criminal activities from our state.”
Oklahoma Governor Stitt has already assigned Oklahoma National Guardsmen this year to assist Texas in their efforts to enhance border security and enforce immigration regulations under Operation Lone Star. Any additional assistance provided to federal authorities or other states would simply be an extension of this support.
Last session’s Republican-championed House Bill 4156 was also signed by him, making it a criminal offense for anyone without legal status in the state. Those found guilty could face fines and jail time.
Operation Guardian, overseen by Oklahoma’s Public Safety Commissioner Tim Tipton, along with the implementation of House Bill 4156 and the utilization of National Guardsmen, presents an opportunity for Governor Stitt to mobilize a significant portion of Oklahoma’s law enforcement resources. The primary objective of this mobilization would be to assist federal authorities in the deportation process of unauthorized immigrants, particularly those with criminal backgrounds.
Currently, the far-reaching law is facing legal challenges, causing it to be held up in court. Moreover, the Oklahoma National Guard has been involved in assisting with immigration enforcement in Texas, rather than within its own state. Additionally, Operation Guardian appears to be primarily targeting individuals who are already in prison.
The implementation of Trump’s ambitious immigration policy goals is currently on hold until his inauguration, the development of a concrete plan, and the approval from Congress. Additionally, the cooperation of local authorities is not guaranteed.
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