U.S. presidential candidates are reacting to published reports that the United States could begin deporting families who are in the country illegally by early January.
Democratic front-runner and former secretary of state Hillary Clinton said she has "real concerns" about the reports that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security could begin its first large-scale effort to eject illegal immigrants. Clinton's campaign said Thursday that she "believes it is critical that everyone has a full and fair hearing, and that our country provides refuge to those that need it."
Clinton's primary Democratic rival, Senator Bernie Sanders, said Thursday that he is "very disturbed" by the reports. In a statement, the senator said, "Our nation has always been a beacon of hope, a refuge for the oppressed. . . . We need to take steps to protect children and families seeking refuge here, not cast them out."
The Republican front-runner, real estate mogul and reality television star Donald Trump, took credit for the news in a Tweeted reaction, saying the deportation plan is being considered because he pressured the government to do it. "It's about time!" he said.