White House border czar Tom Homan is facing intense criticism from Democratic lawmakers and activists over Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions under the Trump administration, which sharply contrast with his record under President Barack Obama.
Homan, who previously served as Executive Associate Director of ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO), was awarded the 2015 Presidential Rank Award for Distinguished Service by President Obama.
The Award recognized Homan's leadership and effectiveness during a period of high border crossings, including his management of large numbers of unaccompanied children and family units and the execution of significant immigration enforcement operations.
Despite that record, Senate Homeland Security Committee Democrats are now urging Chairman Senator Rand Paul to convene oversight hearings and call Homan to testify following the January 7 killing of Renee Good by an ICE agent in Minneapolis.
The incident has triggered protests and clashes with federal officers, and has been used by Democrats to renew criticism of the Trump administration's immigration enforcement strategy.
The shift in tone has prompted accusations of political hypocrisy, particularly as Homan's role in immigration enforcement has remained consistent across administrations.
Former Congresswoman Mayra Flores highlighted the contrast in a social media post, writing, "Barack Obama's ICE chief received an award for 920,000 removals. Donald Trump's ICE chief was called a Nazi. It's the same Person: Tom Homan."
Barack Obama’s ICE chief received an award for 920,000 removals.
Donald Trump’s ICE chief was called a Nazi.
It’s the same person: Tom Homan.
In 2012, Obama deported 409,000 people.
In 2025, Trump deported 290,000 people.
The difference is mainstream media brainwashing. pic.twitter.com/kFgGmZKFa5
— Mayra Flores (@MayraFlores4TX) January 20, 2026
Supporters argue the numbers and awards highlight that Homan is being targeted for serving under a Republican administration, not for his actions. They claim that Democrats are now demonizing policies and personnel they once applauded, using tragedy and political pressure to advance a broader narrative against border enforcement.
