U.S. President Donald Trump has nominated former Oklahoma State Trooper and U.S. Marine Lance Schroyer to serve as the next director of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), a key agency at the center of the administration’s immigration enforcement strategy.

Announcing the nomination, Trump praised Schroyer’s nearly three decades of law enforcement experience and described him as the right person to strengthen immigration enforcement across the United States.

In his announcement, Trump said:

“Lance has over 29 YEARS of Law Enforcement experience in Oklahoma.”

He added:

“Lance is a former Oklahoma State Trooper, and United States Marine. He is a PATRIOT with real operational experience, and proven leader with DECADES of experience locking up the worst of the worst.”

Trump also urged lawmakers to act quickly on the nomination, stating:

“The Senate must CONFIRM Lance, IMMEDIATELY — Do not delay.”

If confirmed by the Senate, Schroyer will become the first Senate-confirmed ICE director in nearly a decade. The agency has operated under a succession of acting directors since 2017, with David Venturella currently serving in the interim role following Todd Lyons’ resignation in May.

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin also endorsed the nomination, highlighting Schroyer’s experience working with federal and state agencies through the 287(g) immigration enforcement programme.

Mullin said:

“President Trump made a great pick, and I’m confident Lance’s strong leadership and firsthand experience will empower the men and women of ICE to deport criminal illegal aliens, secure the homeland, and protect the American people.”

Schroyer’s nomination comes as the Trump administration continues to expand immigration enforcement efforts, including increased detention capacity and deportation operations. Supporters argue his extensive law enforcement background makes him well qualified for the position, while critics say his confirmation is likely to generate debate over the administration’s broader immigration policies.