John Block, a New Mexico House representative, said that undocumented immigrants should anticipate immigration enforcement. In contrast, legal residents, irrespective of race or ethnicity, have no cause for concern. This statement was made in a post on X.
"Hispanic Americans (like me), and every LEGAL American has nothing to worry about because they're American," said Block, New Mexico State Representative for 51st District (R). "If they're illegal, damn right they have something to worry about. If they're white, black, brown, polka dot, etc., they gotta watch out because if they they're here (il)legally, they're going back home. SELF-DEPORT!"
Recent reporting by the Associated Press (AP) News highlights ongoing debates in the United States regarding immigration enforcement and self-deportation initiatives. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been offering $1,000 stipends and travel assistance to undocumented immigrants through the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Home app. Critics argue these measures bypass due process and have an uncertain long-term impact.
According to the Pew Research Center, there were between 11.0 and 13.7 million undocumented immigrants residing in the U.S. as of early 2025. This group represents approximately 3–4% of the nation's population, a figure that has modestly increased since 2022.
A Migration Policy Institute analysis found that self-deportation programs, including voluntary departure incentives, have resulted in only small numbers of participants and little evidence of a lasting reduction in undocumented populations. The analysis suggests that full enforcement measures show stronger deterrent effects.
Block is a Republican state representative for New Mexico's District 51, first elected in 2022. He previously founded the conservative Piñon Post and held staff positions in the legislature as well as policy roles at Chevron and Americans United for Life.
