Aurora, Colorado: Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has called for the death penalty for migrants who kill U.S. citizens or law enforcement officers, at an Aurora rally. The night Aurora rally was observed by Trump’s repeated claims about an “invasion” of immigrants, as he promised mass deportation if elected in 2024.
Trump declared that, “November 5, 2024, will be liberation day in America.” Trump framed his likely second term as a fight against what he calls an “occupied America.” He sketched a harsh immigration policy, vowing to “close the border” and conduct the “largest deportation operation in U.S. history.”
Trump’s statements come with an improved focus on immigration as a key issue in the upcoming election. His rhetoric has drawn objection for stoking fears and making deceptive statements about immigrants, with critics comparing his language to that used by white supremacist movements. He also revealed plans for “Operation Aurora,” desired to expedite deportations of gang members, summoning the Alien Enemies Act of 1798.
LIVE: Trump Rally in Aurora, #Colorado https://t.co/8lIYs46lxh
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 11, 2024
Local officials, including Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman, pushed back on Trump’s narrative. Coffman noted that the Venezuelan gang presence in the city had been “grossly exaggerated” and that Aurora remains a “considerably safe city.” Despite these declarations, Trump continued to highlight Aurora as an illustration of migrant-related crime.
With just over three weeks until Election Day, Trump and his running mate, Senator JD Vance, have made immigration a central theme of their campaign, striking Vice President Kamala Harris on the issue. Both candidates have blamed her for promoting an “open border” policy, despite recent bipartisan efforts to draw border security under the Biden administration.
As the race enters its final phase, immigration remains a polarising topic, with polls showing it as a top issue for voters.
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