President Joe Biden’s administration has significantly increased immigration-related executive actions compared to Donald Trump’s presidency, issuing 535 orders in the first three years, surpassing Trump’s 472 actions in four years, as per the Migration Policy Institute’s report, “Biden at the Three-Year Mark.” Biden’s initiatives have aimed at restoring legal immigration to pre-pandemic levels, expanding refugee resettlement, broadening humanitarian protections, and narrowing enforcement actions against unauthorized immigrants. These changes fulfill campaign promises, aid the economy, and reduce fears of arbitrary enforcement.
However, criticism arises from both sides. Some Democrats advocate for stricter border control, complicating immigration politics, especially in an election year. Biden’s continuation of Trump-era policies like Title 42 has drawn ire from progressives, who argue against the similarity in border stances. Complaints extend to the glitchy CBP One app, limitations on asylum, and the new Circumvention of Lawful Pathways rule incentivizing arrivals at ports of entry.
Mixed results emerge from Biden’s policies. While CBP One usage increases port of entry processing, the expansion of temporary parole alleviates border pressure but leaves many in legal limbo. Unauthorized immigrants and corresponding removal efforts surge post-Title 42, straining resources and impacting cities nationwide with housing and budgetary burdens.
To mitigate challenges, Biden’s administration expedites work permits through parole and Temporary Protected Status programs for Venezuelans and others, creating nearly 700,000 TPS holders. Efforts include initiatives for Ukrainian and Afghan immigrants and regional partnerships to address migration.
The administration also seeks to undo Trump-era changes, rebuilding refugee resettlement with increasing admissions expected in 2024. Nevertheless, immigration remains a contentious issue, with tense negotiations in Congress potentially affecting Biden’s support base.
As the 2024 election approaches, immigration will likely remain a focal point, with Biden facing pressure to balance policy changes, address criticisms, and navigate political dynamics amidst ongoing negotiations and evolving challenges.
Baptist News Global:
“Some, though not most, of the administration’s actions are part of an effort to undo changes introduced during the Trump administration,” the report says. “Since taking office, the Biden administration has rebuilt the refugee resettlement system after admissions hit record lows under Trump.”
That resulted in the resettlement of 25,500 refugees in 2022, against a goal of 125,000, followed by 60,000 admissions in 2023. Refugee admissions are expected to surpass 85,000 this year.”
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Image credit: Photo by Nitish Meena on Unsplash
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