A surge in voluntary departure agreements in immigration courts is raising concerns that Trump administration tactics are unfairly pressuring immigrants into leaving the United States, even if they have a legal right to stay. - Voluntary departures reached 89,494 cases as of May 1, more than seven times the rate under Biden.
- A policy of mandatory detention without bond, upheld in some appeals courts, is increasing pressure on immigrants. - Critics say conditions in detention facilities are dire, with 51 deaths reported since Trump's inauguration.
- The Department of Homeland Security defends the policy, offering $2,600 and a free flight for self-deportation. Experts warn that the reported drop in the noncitizen population may be due to fear of government surveys rather than actual departures.