Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo joined 25 other Republican governors on Wednesday in endorsing President-elect Donald Trump’s plan to address illegal immigration. The group pledged to assist in deporting undocumented immigrants who pose threats to public safety and national security.

In a joint statement, the governors expressed their full commitment to supporting Trump’s immigration policies, stating, “We understand the direct threat these criminal illegal immigrants pose to public safety and our national security, and we will do everything in our power to assist in removing them from our communities.”

Shifting Stance on National Guard Use

Lombardo’s endorsement came just days after he said it was “too soon to opine” on Nevada’s role in implementing Trump’s proposed deportation plans. At a Western Governors’ Association press conference on Monday, Lombardo had noted that “the devil’s in the details” regarding the feasibility of Trump’s campaign promises.

The joint statement, however, clarified the potential role of state resources, including the Nevada National Guard, to support Trump’s efforts. “We stand ready to utilize every tool at our disposal — whether through state law enforcement or the National Guard — to support President Trump in this vital mission,” it stated.

Criticism and Concerns

The announcement has drawn criticism from immigration advocates. Michael Kagan, director of the UNLV Immigration Clinic, expressed concerns that deploying the National Guard for civil law enforcement could “terrify communities in Nevada” and create a militarized environment.

“What is frightening about the potential use of the National Guard is that it suggests deporting longtime residents who are deeply integrated in our community, who are raising families and who have no serious criminal records,” Kagan said.

Laura Martin, executive director of the Progressive Leadership Alliance of Nevada Action Fund, described the statement as “pretty disgusting,” questioning the rationale behind using state resources for mass deportation.

Political and Community Reactions

While critics raised concerns, conservative commentator Chuck Muth defended Lombardo’s approach, describing the governor as “very reasonable and responsible” on immigration issues. Muth noted that deporting undocumented immigrants with criminal records is a priority but acknowledged the complexities involved in deporting longtime residents.

The Trump-Vance transition team also emphasized the urgency of addressing immigration issues, pledging that the incoming administration would launch the “largest mass deportation operation of illegal immigrant criminals in history.”

Awaiting Policy Details

Lombardo’s office reiterated that the governor remains supportive of Trump’s immigration plans but is waiting for more details before committing to specific actions. The governor’s stance has sparked a broader conversation about balancing public safety, community integration, and the practicalities of implementing mass deportation policies.

For more details, visit Las Vegas Review-Journal.

Source: Las Vegas Review-Journal