<p>Sen. Jim Justice (R-WV) clarified his stance on the Trump administration’s deportation agenda, stating on Wednesday that he supports President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement efforts. This comes after he previously suggested that the administration should adjust its immigration-enforcement strategy due to concerns from the cattle industry regarding impacts on the agricultural labor force.</p>
<p>Justice accused the media of misrepresenting his earlier comments, asserting that his support for Trump’s policies is unwavering. He emphasized the need to focus on individuals who pose a danger to communities, stating, “Violent criminals, drug traffickers, gang members and others who threaten our communities should be identified, arrested and removed.”</p>
<p>On Tuesday, Justice had expressed a more critical view, suggesting that enforcement actions could lead to the removal of long-term residents. He stated, “Before you know it, you get people that get carried away in their job... and all of a sudden, then you’re dragging people away that have lived on your street corner for 15 years.”</p>
<p>Justice further remarked, “To get better, the first thing you got to do is admit you’re doing something wrong,” indicating a need for reassessment of current enforcement practices.</p>
<p>His earlier comments drew backlash from fellow Republicans and cattle industry representatives, who argue that immigration raids have negatively affected labor availability in processing facilities. Justice also criticized his party for not addressing the affordability concerns of everyday people.</p>
<p>Justice, a millionaire coal tycoon, is reportedly considering a bid to return to the West Virginia governor’s mansion.</p>