WILL SENATOR RAND PAUL CONTINUE OPPOSING TRUMP USING THE MILITARY FOR DEPORTATIONS?
Rand Paul opposing President Donald Trump's proposed military involvement in deportations was a talking point near the end of 2024. Now, the Trump administration is back in office and we’re already seeing a notable focus on conducting mass deportations with the use of military assets. Despite being a member of the Republican Party, the Kentucky Senator remains against the current approach used by the administration.
Senator Rand Paul Opposes Trump’s Use of the Military for Deportations
Let’s be clear, Senator Rand Paul supports Trump’s plan for deportations; however, it’s the method that is coming into question. Specifically, the use of the military.
Opponents of Trump’s plan argue the use of law enforcement would be a better option than using military members.
Such opposition comes from notable politicians, like Paul, but also includes civil rights groups.
One of the unique things about Paul’s stance is that unlike the Democrats condemn the plan as cruel and harmful to the economy, he is a Republican.
The impact on children in families dealing with military deportations, including those who are legal U.S. citizens, could be severe.
“If they send the Army into New York and you have 10,000 troops marching carrying semi-automatic weapons, I think it’s a terrible image, and I will oppose that,” said Paul, leading up to Trump’s second term.
Deportations Are Now a Reality
Trump has lofty ambitions as he goes after the nearly 11 million illegal immigrants estimated to be living in the United States currently.
This means hitting higher targets, with arrest quotes being touted to be between 1200 to 1500, and in the first eight days of his second term, there were nearly 5,540 arrests conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Despite pushback from Paul and other critics, deportations hit their highest mark in a decade during 2024 under the Biden administration.
What continues to unfold at the border and beyond is not necessarily new but the consorted effort and use of military resources is a notable difference from past efforts, including those implemented during Trump’s first term as President.
Fort Campbell Helping With Border, Deportations
While Sen. Rand Paul might oppose the use of military assets for Trump's deportations, the Bluegrass State is still doing its part as troops from Fort Campbell, Kentucky, including the 716th Military Police Battalion and 101st Airborne Division, have deployed to the southern U.S. border.
These deployments are to help with deportation efforts and provide security following Trump’s national emergency declaration.
The troops are working with multiple government agencies, with Border Czar Tom Homan saying their role includes deportations, public safety, and infrastructure, with more nationwide arrests expected.
Many Will Be Watching Rand Paul
The political world is ever-changing and filled with plenty of paradoxes. Sen. Paul is proving to be one himself.
Modern politics have a bit of a pack mentality where going against your party is scrutinized, unlike any other time in recent history.
How his decision to oppose Trump’s use of the military for deportations remains to be seen but now that the wheels are in motion, many will be watching to see how true to his word Rand Paul will be.
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