Story perspectives

New Deportation Chief Faces Criticism Amid 1,700 Applications

2/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Daren Margolin, the new deportation chief, is expediting immigration cases.
He has received more than 1,700 applications for "deportation judge" positions, which require only a law degree and some litigation experience.
Critics worry he will rubberstamp deportation orders.
Former colleagues describe him as "lazy" and lacking understanding of legal duties.
They fear he was appointed to serve as a "puppet" for the Trump administration, raising alarms about the agency's future.

1 of 1

Story summary

Daren Margolin, the new deportation chief, is expediting immigration cases.
He has received more than 1,700 applications for "deportation judge" positions, which require only a law degree and some litigation experience.
Critics worry he will rubberstamp deportation orders.
Former colleagues describe him as "lazy" and lacking understanding of legal duties.
They fear he was appointed to serve as a "puppet" for the Trump administration, raising alarms about the agency's future.