A new DHS advertisement urging citizens to report “foreign invaders” has sparked intense debate between those who view it as xenophobic and others who defend it as necessary for national security.
At a Glance
- The Department of Homeland Security released a World War II-style advertisement encouraging Americans to report “foreign invaders,” referring to illegal immigrants
- Critics, including MSNBC’s Nicole Wallace, have compared the ad to McCarthyism and tactics used in Nazi Germany
- Defenders cite a letter from former FBI officials describing the influx of illegal aliens as a “soft invasion” of military-age men
- The advertisement is part of a larger international campaign warning illegal aliens to self-deport or face deportation with a ban on returning to the U.S.
- Mexico has responded by proposing changes to broadcast laws to prevent foreign governments from buying TV spots that influence Mexican affairs
DHS Advertisement Sparks National Controversy
The Department of Homeland Security has ignited a firestorm of debate with its recently released World War II-style advertisement urging Americans to report “foreign invaders” to DHS hotlines. The advertisement, featuring stark imagery reminiscent of wartime propaganda posters, is part of a broader nationwide and international campaign announced by DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. The campaign explicitly targets illegal immigrants both within American borders and those considering illegal entry, warning of deportation and potential bans on future re-entry to the United States.
Left-leaning media figures have responded with sharp criticism. MSNBC’s Nicole Wallace questioned the terminology used in the advertisement, asking, “Did Vladimir Putin write that?” Her guest, retired Army Brigadier General Steve Anderson, agreed with the sentiment, replying, “He might very well have.” Critics have drawn parallels between the advertisement’s rhetoric and historical periods of heightened suspicion toward foreigners, including McCarthyism and policies in Nazi Germany, suggesting the campaign targets innocent workers and families rather than actual threats.
— Bennetta Elliott (@belliott123) June 11, 2025
Administration Defends Security Measures
Supporters of the DHS campaign point to legitimate security concerns, citing a letter from former FBI officials that characterizes the current influx of illegal aliens as a “soft invasion” of military-age men. The administration maintains that the advertisements serve a critical role in deterring illegal immigration and encouraging voluntary departures. Secretary Noem has emphasized that the campaign aligns with President Trump’s border security policies and represents a clear shift in immigration enforcement priorities.
“Under President Trump, America’s borders are closed to lawbreakers,” stated Secretary Noem. “President Trump has a clear message: if you are here illegally, we will find you and deport you. You will never return. But if you leave now, you may have an opportunity to return and enjoy our freedom and live the American Dream.”
The advertisements utilize multiple communication channels, including radio, broadcast television, digital media, social media platforms, and text messages. The campaign distinguishes between illegal immigrants generally and those with criminal backgrounds, with Secretary Noem delivering a particularly stern warning to the latter group: “If you are a criminal alien considering entering America illegally: Don’t even think about it. If you come here and break our laws, we will hunt you down. Criminals are not welcome in the United States.”
International Tensions Rise Over Advertisement Campaign
The DHS campaign has created diplomatic tension with Mexico, where the advertisements have aired on national television. Mexico’s anti-discrimination agency, CONAPRED, has received complaints about the spots, labeling them discriminatory and potentially inciting violence against migrants. In response, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo announced plans to propose changes to broadcast laws that would prevent foreign governments from purchasing television spots that influence Mexican affairs.
“We have found in our analysis that the TV spot has a discriminatory message that places human dignity in jeopardy and could encourage rejection and violence against migrants,” stated CONAPRED in their assessment of the DHS advertisement.
The controversy unfolds against a backdrop of already strained U.S.-Mexico relations, with President Trump threatening tariffs over migration and drug trafficking issues. Mexican officials are actively negotiating with the Trump administration to prevent further economic penalties and address ongoing trade concerns. Additionally, water payment obligations under a 1944 treaty remain a point of contention, with an October deadline approaching for Mexico to fulfill its commitments to the United States.
