Former President Donald Trump criticized Colorado Governor Jared Polis for not doing enough to combat the Tren de Aragua gang, a ruthless Venezuelan prison gang that has infiltrated the city of Aurora. Trump referred to the gang as being in the real estate business with weapons, contrasting his method of working with financing. The gang has expanded its reach in the US amidst an increase in illegal immigration during the Harris-Biden administration, taking over several apartment buildings in Aurora.
At least 10 members of the violent Tren de Aragua gang have been arrested in Aurora. Trump accused Polis of being afraid and not wanting to deal with the issue, labeling him as “chickens–t.” Local officials in Denver suburbs have considered lawsuits against sanctuary city policies that have allowed migrants to flow in unchecked. Six Colorado counties have already filed lawsuits against Polis and the state due to an increase in migrant crime, with allegations that the gang members are committing violent acts in Aurora.
Trump criticized the gang for breaking down doors, collecting rent illegally, and committing violent crimes such as shootings, smashing jaws, and breaking skulls. He promised that if he were president, the gang members would be removed swiftly. Polis, however, dismissed Trump’s concerns during an appearance on CNN, stating that the Aurora Trump referred to is not the same city that people of Colorado know, and that it is safer than ever before. Polis also mentioned that Trump had a brief visit to a hotel in Aurora and left without truly seeing the city.
During his campaign stop in Aurora, Trump pledged to use the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to counter the Tren de Aragua gang. This act allows the president to apprehend and remove citizens of enemy nations who are considered a threat to the US during wartime. Trump also proposed implementing a 10-year prison sentence for migrants who re-enter the US after being deported and imposing the death penalty on illegal migrants who kill American citizens. Trump’s strong stance on immigration and border security is evident in his plans to address the threat posed by violent gangs like Tren de Aragua.
The conflict between Trump and Polis highlights the ongoing debate over immigration policies and the impact of illegal immigration on local communities. Trump’s accusations against Polis and his pledge to take decisive action against the Tren de Aragua gang reflect his tough approach to border security and law enforcement. Polis, on the other hand, defends his state’s safety record and dismisses Trump’s claims as unfounded. The situation in Aurora and the surrounding areas underscores the complex challenges posed by criminal organizations exploiting weaknesses in the immigration system.
Ultimately, the clash between Trump and Polis underscores the broader political and ideological divisions surrounding immigration policy in the US. As both sides present contrasting views on the situation in Aurora and the actions needed to address it, it remains a deeply contentious issue that will continue to shape political debates and policy decisions in the future. The Tren de Aragua gang’s presence in Aurora serves as a stark reminder of the real-world consequences of illegal immigration and the challenges faced in addressing criminal activity linked to migrant populations.
