US Immigration and Customs Enforcement released an unusual propaganda video on Monday night that has ignited widespread controversy across social media platforms. The bizarre holiday-themed clip depicts Santa Claus as an immigration enforcement agent who arrests and deports undocumented migrants, transforming the beloved Christmas figure into a symbol of federal deportation operations.
According to the NY Post, the video was posted on X as part of a coordinated messaging campaign aimed at encouraging undocumented immigrants to voluntarily leave the United States. The agency’s decision to weaponize Christmas imagery for immigration enforcement purposes represents a dramatic departure from traditional government communications, blending holiday cheer with hardline deportation messaging.
The footage features a dramatically reimagined Father Christmas who bears little resemblance to the jolly gift-giver of tradition. Instead of a rotund, cheerful figure in a simple red suit, this version of Santa appears as a muscular, tactical enforcement officer wearing a distinctive red bulletproof vest emblazoned with the ICE logo, creating a jarring fusion of holiday symbolism and federal law enforcement.
The holiday deportation incentive comes with a cash bonus
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem unveiled a controversial new initiative on Monday designed to encourage voluntary departures of undocumented immigrants through substantial financial incentives. The program, officially titled “Home for the Holidays,” represents a significant escalation in the federal government’s strategy to reduce the undocumented population through economic inducements rather than forced removals.
ICE posted the Santa video with a message telling migrants to avoid the “naughty list.” They encouraged people to use the CBP Home app to self-deport, earn the $3,000, and spend Christmas at home with their families. The holiday incentive runs through the end of 2025. Immigrants should also be aware of their legal rights during ICE encounters.
Approximately 1.9 million undocumented immigrants have voluntarily departed the United States since President Trump assumed office for his second term in January 2025. This substantial figure represents one of the largest waves of self-deportation in recent American history, reflecting the combined impact of heightened enforcement rhetoric, increased immigration raids, and financial incentive programs designed to encourage migrants to leave without formal removal proceedings.
Officials say paying people to leave on their own is cheaper than forced deportation. The government claims it costs an average of $17,000 to arrest, detain, and deport each illegal migrant. The self-deportation program aims to reduce these costs while encouraging voluntary departures. However, the devastating impact of deportation on immigrants remains a serious concern for many families.
Published: Dec 23, 2025 04:45 pm