On his first day in office after securing a historic second term, President Donald Trump wasted no time in making sweeping changes to U.S. immigration policy. One of the most significant moves was his immediate decision to shut down the CBP One app, a mobile platform previously used by the Biden administration to grant legal status to over a million illegal immigrants and asylum seekers. Trump’s actions signal a dramatic shift in the country’s approach to border security and immigration.
The Rise of CBP One Under Biden
The CBP One app was originally launched in October 2020 by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) as a tool for trucking companies to schedule cargo inspections at border crossings. However, under President Joe Biden, its functionality expanded in early 2023. The app was modified to allow unauthorized migrants to seek asylum appointments in the U.S. after fleeing violence, poverty, or persecution in their home countries. Within months, it became the sole pathway for asylum seekers along the U.S.-Mexico border.
By the summer of 2023, the app was being used by roughly 1,450 applicants per day, who successfully received appointments. The app’s popularity surged, with many describing it as a “lottery system,” granting legal entry into the United States for those who were approved. Critics argued that the app facilitated legal status for illegal immigrants, a point of contention between the Biden administration and opponents, including Trump and his allies.
Trump’s Day-One Executive Orders
On January 20, 2025, after taking the oath of office, President Trump signed a series of executive orders that fundamentally reshaped the U.S. immigration system. The first of these orders suspended the CBP One app, effectively shutting down the main avenue for asylum seekers to gain legal entry into the U.S. The suspension of the app also meant that all pending appointments were canceled indefinitely, leaving many without an alternative pathway.
A statement on the CBP website read, “Effective January 20, 2025, the functionalities of the CBP One App that previously allowed undocumented aliens to submit advance information and schedule appointments at eight southwest border ports of entry is no longer available.” This move marked the beginning of Trump’s broader crackdown on illegal immigration.
National Emergency Declared Along Southern Border
In addition to ending the CBP One app, Trump declared a “national emergency” along the southern U.S. border with Mexico. The emergency declaration paves the way for the deployment of military personnel to curb illegal border crossings. Trump also announced plans to impose a 25% tariff on both Mexico and Canada, accusing them of allowing large numbers of people to cross the border illegally. The tariffs are set to take effect on February 1, 2025.
In an Oval Office statement, Trump said, “We’re thinking in terms of 25% on Mexico and Canada because they’re allowing vast numbers of people to cross the border. I think we’ll do it starting February 1.”
Trump Fulfills His Election Promises
Trump’s swift action on immigration marks a stark contrast to the policies of the previous administration. Throughout his campaign, Trump made it clear that tackling illegal immigration would be a top priority. His promise to act on Day 1 of his presidency has been fulfilled with these bold measures.
While these executive orders are sure to face legal challenges, including potential lawsuits from organizations like Amnesty International, Trump’s administration is set on taking a hard stance against illegal immigration.
Will Trump Keep His Promise to Deport Millions?
As Trump moves forward with his immigration plans, the focus now shifts to his promise to “deport millions” of illegal immigrants. With his executive actions already stirring controversy, it remains to be seen how these measures will play out in the courts and on the ground. Trump’s promises to reduce illegal immigration and secure the border will be tested in the months and years ahead.
The coming weeks will reveal whether the Trump administration can successfully implement these drastic changes, or if they will face significant pushback from both domestic and international sources. For now, Trump’s executive orders on immigration are poised to reshape U.S. policy in ways that will resonate for years to come.