Trump's Anti-Immigrant Blitz, a Zero Hour Conversation with Sonali Kolhatkar

Richard and Sonali criticize the misinformation spread by the administration, noting that many arrests are non-violent or involve civil offenses.

By RJ Eskow and Sonali Kolhatkar, The Zero Hour

Richard Eskow and Sonali Kolhatkar discuss the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement policies, which they describe as targeting immigrants for political gain. They highlight the lack of transparency and the use of fear tactics, such as raids in cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and Miami, and the potential detention of up to 30,000 migrants in Guantanamo. Sonali emphasizes that many of those arrested are not violent criminals but individuals with minor immigration violations or criminal histories, including Trump himself, who has a felony record. She also points out the fear and trauma experienced by immigrant communities, including legal residents who risk deportation due to lost documentation.

Richard and Sonali criticize the misinformation spread by the administration, noting that many arrests are non-violent or involve civil offenses. They also discuss the broader implications of Trump’s policies, such as revoking birthright citizenship and creating a two-tier society. Sonali highlights the lack of strong opposition from Democrats, who have historically supported restrictive immigration policies.

The conversation concludes with a focus on community-based initiatives and mutual aid, such as the Pasadena Community Job Center, which supports immigrant workers and organizes disaster relief efforts. They stress the importance of grassroots organizing and “Know Your Rights” trainings to protect vulnerable communities. Both speakers express concern about the future but emphasize the power of collective action and solidarity.