The article outlines the ambitious deportation goals set by former President Donald Trump, who pledged to initiate the largest deportation campaign in U.S. history by targeting at least one million individuals annually. Under his administration, the Department of Homeland Security claimed that this target was surpassed in Trump's first year, reporting the removal of 675,000 undocumented individuals, while an additional 2.2 million were said to have left the country voluntarily due to the administration's strict immigration policies. This phenomenon was described as 'self deportation' by the government.

However, the article notes the challenges in verifying these statistics, as the government has refrained from releasing comprehensive data on the deportation process. Organizations focused on human rights issues and various media outlets have provided alternative estimates, suggesting that the true number of deportations or voluntary departures may be significantly lower than the government claims. This discrepancy raises concerns about the accuracy of the administration's reports and the broader implications for immigration policy.

Moreover, the atmosphere created by such aggressive deportation strategies is framed as deliberately instilling fear among immigrant communities in the U.S. The article suggests that the Trump administration's rhetoric and actions are designed to create a climate of intimidation, prompting individuals to leave the country or remain silent about their immigration status. This comprehensive look at Trump's deportation policies highlights the tension between reported successes and the potential human costs involved.