President Donald Trump signed a game-changing executive order aimed at ending taxpayer funding for federal programs that support illegal immigration.
The move is part of a broader push to ensure that taxpayer resources are used to benefit American citizens, not those who are in the country unlawfully.
The executive order mandates that federal agencies identify and cut off all programs providing financial assistance to illegal immigrants. It also targets “sanctuary” policies, ensuring no federal funds are used to support cities and states that defy federal immigration enforcement.
“Our nation’s resources should be spent to protect the interests of American citizens, not illegal aliens,” the order states. “This administration will stand firm to preserve the rule of law, protect taxpayer dollars, and safeguard benefits for those who need it most, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.”
Trump’s commitment to protecting American citizens is clear, with a White House fact sheet emphasizing the need to prioritize federal benefits for those who are truly in need, including veterans and people with disabilities.
The executive order comes as the cost of illegal immigration continues to rise. Since 2021, American taxpayers have shouldered a staggering $451 billion in expenses related to the care of illegal aliens and individuals who entered the U.S. unlawfully.
The Federation for American Immigration Reform estimates that illegal immigration costs taxpayers $182 billion annually, with $66.5 billion in federal expenses and the rest borne by state and local governments.
In addition, the Center for Immigration Studies suggests that one million illegal immigrants could drain an additional $3 billion from taxpayers each year through welfare programs—benefits that are generally not meant to be available to those unlawfully residing in the U.S.
While illegal immigrants who are granted parole may become eligible for some benefits as “qualified aliens,” they must wait five years to fully qualify, underlining the administration’s commitment to ensuring taxpayer money is spent efficiently and responsibly.
