Original Date Announced

CBP has reportedly denied travelers entry to the U.S. based on anti-Trump comments made either publicly and available online or in messages found after CBP searched electronic devices.

The Guardian reported that a French scientist was denied entry and deported after CBP found messages on his phone that were critical of the Trump administration. CBP denied that the decision was politically motivated and emphasized its authority to conduct searches of electronic devices. In a statement, CBP explained that “CBP officers may search a traveler’s mobile phone, computer, camera, or other electronic devices during the inspection process," and that "[i]f an individual has material discovered on their electronic media that raises flags during an inspection, it can result in further analysis.”

The Guardian then subsequently reported that three members of the rock band UK Subs were detained, denied entry, and returned to the UK when they flew to Los Angeles for a scheduled gig. The band has been outspokenly critical of Trump and his policies in the past and are known to make political statements during live performances.

Trump 2.0 [ID #1660]

Subsequent Trump and Court Action

2025.10.04: Canadians caught in crossfire as U.S. customs searches of electronic devices rise at borders - CBC News

CBC News reports on a significant increase in CBP electronic-device searches at border crossings. "While electronic device searches jumped by 12.6 per cent over the past year, the total number of travellers entering the United States rose by 6.6 per cent. Among the most notable increases are searches of U.S. citizens' devices, which rose nearly 22 per cent." Immigration lawyers note a heightened sense of fear and scrutiny, with some travelers reporting questions about their political opinions, including views on the U.S. President.

Subsequent Trump and Court Action

2025.10.27 Reported: British political commentator Sami Hamdi detained by ICE while on U.S. speaking tour - PBS News

PBS News reports that a British political commentator, Sami Hamdi, was detained by ICE at the San Francisco International Airport after the State Department revoked his visitor visa. While the State Department did not specify which statements triggered the action, a senior U.S. official said the decision was tied to his past and recent comments about the Middle East. He had been on a U.S. speaking tour, including an address at the Sacramento chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, which said he was detained over his criticism of the Israeli government.

Subsequent Trump and Court Action

2025.11.14 Reported: Journalist detained by ICE speaks out after release - Newsweek

Newsweek reports that Sami Hamdi was released from federal custody on November 10 and has returned to the United Kingdom. Laura Loomer, a far-right conspiracy theorist and supporter of President Trump, claimed credit for the State Department's revocation of Hamdi’s visa. DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin states that Hamdi had requested voluntary departure.