Op-Ed: Orlando Sonza: President Donald Trump’s plan to fix immigration is what we need

President Donald Trump’s immigration plan strikes a balance between law enforcement, economic responsibility, and fairness.

Illegal immigration poses one of the most pressing challenges to the United States, undermining national security, straining public resources, and limiting opportunities for citizens and for lawful immigrants. Opponents of illegal immigration are often mischaracterized as anti-immigrant, ignoring President Donald Trump’s strong support for legal immigration, which he views as a cornerstone of American strength.

As someone who came to this country through legal immigration, I know firsthand the contributions immigrants make when they follow the rules. Enforcing immigration laws ensures fairness for those who respect the system, protects taxpayers, and preserves opportunities for lawful immigrants.

The results of the November 5th election reaffirm that Americans want decisive action on illegal immigration. President Trump’s plan, which targets high-priority offenders, empowers local law enforcement, and enforces existing laws, offers a comprehensive solution to secure our borders and safeguard America’s future.

At the heart of President Trump’s strategy is the prosecution of dangerous individuals, including human traffickers, drug cartels, and violent gangs like MS-13. These groups exploit immigration loopholes to smuggle people, drugs, and weapons, inflicting devastating harm on communities. From fentanyl-related deaths to human trafficking, the consequences are catastrophic. Foreign adversaries also exploit these vulnerabilities for espionage and cyberattacks. Addressing these threats will make communities safer and will refocus resources on other critical issues.

Another priority is prosecuting individuals who re-enter the U.S. illegally after deportation. Many have criminal records, blatantly disregard U.S. sovereignty, and pose ongoing threats to public safety. Visa overstays, which account for nearly 40 percent of illegal immigration, also demand attention. By addressing overstays and fraudulent documentation, the administration can protect the integrity of lawful immigration and ensure fairness for those who follow the rules.

“Sanctuary” jurisdictions that shield dangerous illegal immigrants from prosecution jeopardize public safety and national security. President Trump’s plan to withhold federal funding from these jurisdictions promotes accountability and fosters stronger cooperation between federal and local law enforcement. This approach ensures that communities remain protected while upholding the rule of law.

Moreover, employers who knowingly hire undocumented immigrants fuel illegal immigration by creating economic incentives outside lawful pathways. President Trump’s policies will deter illegal hiring, protect American workers, and penalize employers who break the law. Revenue from fines can fund enforcement efforts, creating a self-sustaining system to combat illegal employment practices.

Critics argue that mass deportation is too costly, and I once thought the same. However, research shows that the long-term burden of illegal immigration far outweighs enforcement expenses. According to the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR), illegal immigration costs taxpayers $150.7 billion annually. By comparison, a one-time deportation effort would cost an estimated $315 billion. While substantial, deportation costs are dwarfed by the ongoing financial strain illegal immigration imposes. A phased deportation strategy, focusing first on offenders with criminal records, can streamline enforcement, reduce costs, and build public trust.

President Trump’s immigration plan strikes a balance between law enforcement, economic responsibility, and fairness. By focusing on dangerous offenders, visa overstays, sanctuary policies, and employment laws, the strategy restores integrity to the immigration system and reaffirms America’s commitment to justice and opportunity. Through a phased, targeted approach and enhanced inter-agency cooperation, this vision is both achievable and sustainable.

This plan benefits all Americans, ensuring that immigration strengthens our nation when pursued legally and responsibly. It underscores our values as a country built on order, justice, and opportunity for all.

Orlando Sonza is a West Point graduate, former U.S. Army officer, Georgetown Law graduate, CPA, former assistant prosecuting attorney, and the Executive Director of the Veterans Service Commission of Hamilton County, Ohio. Born in the Philippines, he now resides in Cincinnati with his wife and four children.