Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said Thursday that more than 1.6 million illegal aliens have self-deported in the past 200 days, calling it proof that President Donald Trump’s immigration strategy is working.
Noem first announced the figure in a post on X, touting what she called its positive impact on the nation.
“In less than 200 days, 1.6 MILLION illegal immigrants have left the United States population. This is massive. This means safer streets, taxpayer savings, pressure off schools and hospital services, and better job opportunities for Americans,” she wrote.
In less than 200 days, 1.6 MILLION illegal immigrants have left the United States population. This is massive. This means safer streets, taxpayer savings, pressure off of schools and hospital services and better job opportunities for Americans.
Thank you @POTUS Trump!
— Secretary Kristi Noem (@Sec_Noem) August 14, 2025
She elaborated Thursday on Fox News, calling it proof that Trump’s policies are keeping Americans safe.
“We have 1.6 million illegal immigrants who have left this country voluntarily,” she said. “These numbers show the genius of Donald J. Trump — the brilliant mind that, when elected in November, knew he had to make America safe again. He told me, ‘Kristi, if you’re going to be my Homeland Security Secretary, we’re going to follow the law, you’re going to do commercials, you’re going to tell the world we will no longer tolerate people being in our country illegally, and that they need to go home.’”
🚨 @Sec_Noem: 1.6M illegal aliens have voluntarily left the United States.
"The world got the message. They're leaving on their own, which is the best thing for American citizens." https://t.co/NmKYlSMWJX pic.twitter.com/I1Hu6zt4m5
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) August 14, 2025