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EXCLUSIVE: Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, one of the most visible figures in President Donald Trump’s first term, told Fox News Digital exclusively that she will announce a plan Tuesday to deploy dozens of National Guard to help in the deportation process for captured illegal immigrants.
The Republican, who served as White House press secretary during the last Trump administration, will work with the Department of Homeland Security under federal Title 32 powers that allow national guardsmen to remain under her control but be funded by Washington.
“Violent, criminal illegal immigrants have no place in Arkansas,” Sanders said.
“I signed the Defense Against Criminal Illegals Act to hold these criminals accountable and slap enhanced penalties on illegal immigrants who commit additional crimes while in our state, and I look forward to our guardsmen working with the Trump Administration to enforce federal immigration law.”
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Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, left; President Donald Trump, right. (Reuters/Brian Snyder)
Sanders said her former boss has skillfully secured the border and praised his efforts to “clean up the streets” in major cities, to the chagrin of Democratic municipal leaders.
“Arkansas stands with him every step of the way,” Sanders added.
Arkansas National Guard Brig. Gen. Chad Bridges confirmed his servicemembers are ready to assist DHS, saying in a statement that they are committed to “focus on their core operations.”
A total of 40 National Guardsmen in Fort Smith, Little Rock and Fayetteville will be activated for this mission.
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Sanders indicated they will assist in logistical support and transportation of illegal immigrant detainees – and remain unarmed.
Arkansas National Guard will also help DHS with the clerical side of the detainment and deportation…
