Video of the day: ICE agents capture criminal fugitives

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement recently apprehended 605 criminals—illegal aliens convicted of theft, weapons possession, assault, domestic violence, strangulation, drunk driving, and drug dealing—through its Operation Cross Check.

ICE also announced today that nearly 3,300 employers have been targeted for inspection of worksite immigration violations in all 50 states, as well as Puerto Rico. These actions put corporations on notice: Anyone who exploits illegal workers to break Federal laws on wages, child labor, and health and safety will be held accountable.

These actions are crucial for upholding the rule of law, but ICE’s work would be much easier, safer, and more effective if the problems with America’s broken immigration system were addressed head-on by Congress. Where gaps exist—both literally in the form of inadequate border security and figuratively in the form of asylum loopholes—the most vulnerable always pay the price.

The list of victims grows each day: migrants exploited and often assaulted by human smugglers; children kidnapped or sold into horrific trafficking rings; American citizens victimized in communities where crime has spilled across the border; and law enforcement officers struggling each day to maintain order despite inadequate resources.

America can do better. And it must.

Behind the scenes: ICE Operation apprehends criminals in California

Gallup: Mentions of Immigration as Top Problem Surpass Record High

Meet America’s new Secretary of Defense, Mark Esper

In the Oval Office this afternoon, President Donald J. Trump participated in the swearing-in ceremony for his new Secretary of Defense. Dr. Mark Esper was overwhelmingly confirmed by the Senate earlier today in a 90-8 vote.

Dr. Esper’s life has been marked by a devotion to America’s safety and security, making his nomination an easy decision for President Trump. The call to service began early on in Esper’s career, from his days at West Point to deployment with the “Screaming Eagles” in the Gulf War.

He served our nation in uniform for more than two decades in total, with 10 years on active duty in the Army and 11 years in the National Guard and Army Reserve.

Prior to his nomination, Esper built a career with leadership positions that gave him a deep understanding of our national security needs. With key roles in the Defense Department, on Capitol Hill, and in the private sector, Esper is without a doubt one of the most capable people in America to execute the President’s National Defense Strategy.

With Esper, our servicemen and women will have someone uniquely qualified to ensure they have all the resources needed to do their jobs. In his new role, Esper will prioritize both defense modernization and accountability to U.S. taxpayers through tough budget decisions.

Most important, he wants to make sure that America’s military members receive the respect and consideration they deserve.

“I am truly honored to be part of the greatest military in the world,” he said.

Vice President Mike Pence: “Mark Esper is a fierce defender of our country.”