Protecting the National Security and Welfare of the United States and its Citizens from Criminal Actors and Other Public Safety Threats
In Simple Terms
The President ordered that the U.S. work with other countries to share criminal records. This helps keep out people who might be a threat.
Summary
On February 6, 2026, President Donald Trump issued an order aimed at enhancing U.S. national security and public safety by targeting criminal actors, including foreign nationals with criminal histories. The order mandates the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to access criminal history records from federal agencies to bolster border security and immigration enforcement. It also directs the Attorney General to provide DHS with access to these records for screening purposes. Additionally, the order allows DHS to exchange criminal history information with Visa Waiver Program countries and other trusted allies, under reciprocal agreements, to improve border security and immigration processes. The order emphasizes compliance with applicable laws and privacy safeguards.
Official Record
Awaiting Federal RegisterPending Federal Register publication
Analysis & Impact
💡 How This May Affect You
- Working families and individuals: May experience increased security, but could face immigration-related disruptions if family members are affected.
- Small business owners: Could benefit from enhanced security, but may face challenges if employees are impacted by immigration checks.
- Students and recent graduates: International students may face stricter entry vetting, affecting study plans and timelines.
- Retirees and seniors: Likely minimal direct impact, but could see changes in community demographics due to immigration policies.
- Different regions (urban, suburban, rural): Urban areas might see more enforcement activity, while rural areas may experience fewer changes.
🏢 Key Stakeholders
- Department of Homeland Security strengthens border security with increased access to CHRI.
- Foreign nationals with criminal histories face heightened scrutiny and deportation risks.
- Justice Department supports DHS by sharing criminal history records.
- Immigration attorneys and advocates encounter challenges in defending clients.
- Privacy advocacy groups concerned about potential misuse of shared personal data.
📈 What to Expect
Short-term (3–12 months):
- Increased data sharing among U.S. and allied nations.
- Enhanced border security measures implemented.
- Public concerns over privacy and data use rise.
Long-term (1–4 years):
- Reduction in illegal entries and smuggling incidents.
- Strengthened international cooperation on security.
- Potential legal challenges on privacy grounds.
📚 Historical Context
- Similar to Eisenhower's 1954 Operation Wetback, focusing on immigration enforcement.
- Builds on Trump's 2017 executive orders enhancing immigration law enforcement.
- Expands international cooperation, echoing Bush's post-9/11 security agreements.
- Notable for reciprocal information exchange with foreign governments for security.
- Emphasizes privacy safeguards, differing from earlier, less-restrictive policies.
Related Actions
Feb 03, 2026
FRAddressing Threats to the United States by the Government of Cuba
Feb 11, 2026
FR