In just over two weeks, more than 100,000 Americans have applied to serve in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement after the Trump administration launched an unprecedented hiring campaign. The goal: add 10,000 new agents to crack down on illegal immigration and restore law and order after years of border chaos under Biden.

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem hailed the overwhelming response as a sign the country is ready to step up. She told Fox News Digital, “Our country is calling you to serve at ICE. In the wake of the Biden administration’s failed immigration policies, your country needs dedicated men and women of ICE to get the worst of the worst criminals out of our country. This is a defining moment in our nation’s history. Your skills, your experience, and your courage have never been more essential.”

The surge in interest began at the end of July when ICE began offering signing bonuses of up to $50,000, student loan repayment or forgiveness, and other benefits to qualified candidates. ICE is recruiting for deportation officers, criminal investigators, attorneys, and additional specialized roles — all designed to strengthen the agency’s ability to enforce immigration laws and protect American communities.

Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons made clear that the stakes couldn’t be higher. “In the wake of the Biden administration’s open border policies, the dedicated men and women of ICE now face unprecedented challenges in removing millions of criminal illegal aliens from our country,” he said. Lyons credited the passage of what he called the “One Big Beautiful Bill” for providing the funding needed to launch the largest ICE recruitment push in history.

All recruits must pass medical screenings, drug tests, and physical fitness evaluations. ICE acknowledges the inherent risks of the job, especially amid a volatile political climate. According to DHS data, assaults on ICE agents have surged 830% in recent years, with Noem noting that figure has now reached 1,000% amid riots, protests, and targeted attacks.

The recruitment site’s FAQ doesn’t shy away from the dangers, warning that ICE law enforcement officers “should expect a certain level of risk when performing their duties.” Still, the agency emphasizes that every precaution is taken to protect its officers and that recruits will receive top-tier training to prepare them for the field.

The urgency of this effort comes as President Trump’s border crackdown has already produced a sharp decline in illegal crossings compared to the Biden era, a trend Trump says is “saving a lot of money” while making the country safer. But the administration insists that lasting security depends on having a vastly expanded enforcement force capable of deporting dangerous criminals swiftly and effectively.

Protests against ICE continue in some parts of the country, with activists confronting federal agents during raids. Critics claim the expansion will lead to aggressive enforcement, while supporters argue it’s a long-overdue step to secure the nation. For the thousands applying, the mission is clear — protect the homeland, uphold the law, and answer what they see as a patriotic call to service.

With the application window still open and public interest surging, DHS officials believe the recruitment drive could far exceed its original target. Whether it’s the promise of generous incentives, the desire to serve, or frustration over years of unchecked illegal immigration, one thing is certain: America’s law enforcement ranks are about to get a major boost.