Tom Homan, the former acting director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), is currently under federal investigation. According to reports, that includes accepting $50,000 in cash from undercover FBI agents. This unforeseeable incident occurred only six weeks before the start of the 2024 presidential election. Homan may have committed to doing the same if Donald Trump, his former boss, wins a second term.
As architect of Trump’s so-called “biggest deportation” plan in U.S. history, Homan was a popular choice for many to receive this honor. His immigration enforcement background is deep, broad and deeply controversial. His involvement in this recent scandal raises significant concerns about ethical conduct within federal agencies, particularly as the political landscape heats up ahead of the upcoming election.
The FBI documented Homan taking the cash on Sept. 20, 2024, while in Texas. Following the incident, federal officials were confident in their case. They thought that foundation of evidence was strong enough for them to proceed with conspiracy to commit bribery charges against him. From the start, the inquiry was under intense fire and likely political attack because of its timing and electoral payload.
Under Joe Biden’s administration, the FBI and Justice Department reportedly opted to delay further actions against Homan to observe whether he would act on his alleged promises after his anticipated appointment as Trump’s border czar. This decision has resulted in ongoing controversy about the motivations for the investigation and whether it is partisan in nature.
An official from the justice department appointed by Trump referred to the case against Homan a “deep state” investigation. He argued that political interests are driving it, rather than a true interest in preventing misconduct.
“deep state” – a justice department official who was appointed by Trump
Attorneys Kash Patel and Todd Blanche, both similarly indicted in the case, had a strong message. They argued that the problem first started with the last administration. FBI agents and prosecutors, in a remarkable display of autonomy, undertook an extensive review. They went looking for criminal wrongdoing against Homan.
“This matter originated under the previous administration and was subjected to a full review by FBI agents and justice department prosecutors. They found no credible evidence of any criminal wrongdoing.” – Kash Patel and Todd Blanche
They argued that the Department of Justice needed to use its resources more strategically. They should have concentrated their efforts on perceived credible threats rather than what they called unfounded probes. Based upon this, they reported that the investigation into Homan’s conduct had been closed.
“The Department’s resources must remain focused on real threats to the American people, not baseless investigations. As a result, the investigation has been closed.” – Kash Patel and Todd Blanche
The political landscape is shifting every day as we near the election. Together, the incidents are good news in a big way for Homan or a huge problem for Trump’s campaign. The charges arrive whenever public confidence in elected officials and investigative entities is at its most thinly stretched.
Homan’s supporters could argue that this investigation reflects ongoing partisan efforts to undermine individuals associated with Trump’s administration. To advocates, it would be a first step on the long road to holding government accountable for making predatory contracting practices the default.