UPDATE: New Orleans is on high alert as the city prepares for a major immigration crackdown, set to launch on December 1, 2025. The operation, dubbed “Swamp Sweep,” will see the deployment of up to 250 federal troops in a significant escalation of immigration enforcement in the region, with troops expected to arrive as early as Friday.
The action is spearheaded by the Trump administration, and Louisiana’s Republican Governor Jeff Landry is pushing for stricter immigration measures in alignment with federal efforts. This crackdown comes just days after the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) was released from a federal oversight agreement, raising concerns about potential racial profiling and civil rights violations.
Governor Landry has championed legislation that aligns with federal immigration policies, positioning New Orleans as a focal point in the nationwide enforcement strategy. The operation will be led by Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino, who has previously overseen aggressive campaigns in cities like Los Angeles and Chicago.
New Orleans is known for its rich multicultural heritage, with a vibrant community of immigrants who contribute significantly to the city’s economy and culture. Mayor-elect Helena Moreno, a Mexican-American immigrant, expressed deep concern over the looming crackdown, stating that “there is a lot of fear” among residents. She is committed to ensuring that those targeted by federal agents are aware of their rights.
“I’m very concerned about due process being violated, I’m very concerned about racial profiling,” Moreno said.
As tensions rise, local advocacy groups are sounding alarms about the potential impacts of the operation on New Orleans’ immigrant communities. Rachel Taber, an organizer with Union Migrante, emphasized the hypocrisy of those advocating for stricter enforcement while benefiting from immigrant labor. “Who do they think is going to clean the hotels from Mardi Gras?” Taber questioned.
Despite the state’s push for federal enforcement, New Orleans’ Democratic leadership has continuously clashed with Governor Landry over immigration policies. Mayor LaToya Cantrell has criticized the state’s claims of sanctuary practices, asserting that the city does not obstruct federal immigration efforts.
In a significant move, Landry recently requested a National Guard deployment to combat what he claims is rising violent crime, despite local officials reporting a decrease in crime rates. He declared that the “Swamp Sweep” operation aims to “take dangerous criminals off the street.” However, community leaders and activists argue that the operation targets vulnerable immigrant populations, exacerbating fear and uncertainty.
With the NOPD now free from federal oversight, officers are in a precarious position regarding immigration enforcement. New Orleans Police Chief Anne Kirkpatrick stated that the department will cooperate with federal agents to ensure public safety, stressing that immigration enforcement should remain a civil matter outside of their jurisdiction.
As the countdown to December 1 continues, the implications of “Swamp Sweep” extend beyond law enforcement. The operation is expected to strain the already tense relationship between state and local leaders, while igniting debates over civil rights and community safety. Residents are urged to stay informed and prepared as federal agents prepare to descend upon the city.
As New Orleans braces for this impending crackdown, the situation remains fluid, with many questions about the operation’s execution and its impact on the city’s diverse communities. The eyes of the nation will be on New Orleans as it navigates these challenging waters in the coming days.
