Policy Priorities
SECURE THE BORDER
A nation without borders is no nation at all. At one time, physical border barriers were considered a commonsense and bipartisan approach to securing our homeland.END HUMAN TRAFFICKING
Human trafficking is extremely lucrative to those who seek to gain from enslaving others. It accounts for an estimated $150 billion in annual global profits and is far more prevalent than many realize.DEFEAT THE CARTELS
The Mexican drug cartels are public enemy #1 to the American people and they are trafficking a record number of migrants and fentanyl across the southern border.
The America First Policy Institute’s (AFPI) Homeland Security & Immigration is devoted to protecting the American people, American interests, and the American way of life. Our “America First” approach requires an immigration system that prioritizes border security and the value of citizenship, a strong and persistent counter-terrorism effort, resiliency of our critical physical and digital infrastructure, and agility in the face of ever-shifting foreign threats and influence.
As our world becomes more complex, so do the threats we face. Terrorism remains a global reality, and America’s ability to prevent attacks in the United States is only as strong as its weakest link at any given moment. America’s enemies no longer need to physically come to our shores to hurt us in the digital age. Threats that strike at the heart of our infrastructure—and, therefore, our civilization—can be achieved with the touch of a button from anywhere in the world. In some cases, these threats are sponsored or shielded by foreign governments; in some cases, they are foreign governments. While these threats are omnipresent, courageous leadership at all levels of government and society is essential for success and security.
Team
The Honorable Chad Wolf
Chair, Homeland Security & Immigration
Cooper Smith
Director, Homeland Security & Immigration
Julie Kirchner
Senior Advisor, Homeland Security & Immigration
Kristen Ziccarelli
Director of Civilizational Action
Kassidy Scott
Policy Analyst, Homeland Security & Immigration
Tony H. Pham, Esq.
Senior Fellow, Homeland Security & Immigration
Emilio Gonzalez
Senior Fellow, Homeland Security & Immigration
Latest
Privatize the TSA to Avoid the Next Airport Mess
Millions of Americans pass through airport security every day — but following numerous DHS shutdowns, travelers increasingly face longer lines, staffing shortages, and uncertain security protocols. These realities raise a fundamental question: Is there a more resilient model of airport security that would benefit American travelers?
AFPI Applauds New Mexico Supreme Court Decision Upholding Otero County Agreement
Washington, D.C.—The America First Policy Institute (AFPI)’s Executive Director of New Mexico, Vince Torres, released the following statement regarding the New Mexico Supreme Court’s unanimous decision to uphold Otero County’s agreement with federal immigration authorities to operate an Immigrant and Customs Enforcement detention facility.
AFPI Celebrates Wins in the WFTC on Tax Day
On Tax Day 2026, American families and workers are experiencing the impact of President Trump’s the Working Families Tax Cuts Act (WFTC). Signed into law on July 4, 2025, this historic legislation is delivering wins for working families, small businesses, parents, seniors and farmers across the Nation. AFPI commends President Trump and America First leaders in Congress for putting more money back in the hands of hardworking Americans.
President Trump’s Actions to Protect America by Ensuring Pay for TSA Officers During DHS Shutdown Are Legal and Constitutional
In the face of a prolonged shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), President Donald J. Trump took decisive action to protect the American people and support the frontline officers who secure the Nation’s airports.
Senseless Murder of Virginia Mother by Illegal Alien Exposes Immigration Failures
Richmond, VA—On Tuesday, March 24, 2026, Ashley Hayek, Executive Vice President at the America First Policy Institute (AFPI), along with other leaders and members of the community, attended a press conference in front of the Virginia Governor's office regarding the brutal murder of Stephanie Nicole Minter, a beloved mother, daughter, and sister. She was murdered by an illegal alien.
Topics
- Rural Prosperity
- Criminal Justice & Public Safety
- The Courts
- Government Weaponization
- Law & Order
- Work & Jobs
- American Dream
- American Only Elections
- Clean Votes
- Secure Elections
- Big Tech & Censorship
- Budget, Spending, & Taxes
- Government De-Regulation
- Public Health
- Border & Immigration
- Human Trafficking
- Asia
- Europe
- Defense
- Israel & the Middle East
- The Western Hemisphere
- Marriage, Family, & Children
- Faith & Religious Liberty