On January 25, 2025, a memo signed by Acting Homeland Security Secretary Benjamin Huffman allows immigration authorities to expedite the removal of certain migrants who were temporarily admitted to the U.S. during the Biden administration. This action follows the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle programs that permitted over 1 million migrants to enter the country under humanitarian parole.
- Trump administration memo enables rapid migrant removals
- Over 1 million migrants admitted under Biden programs
- CBP One app's scheduling function terminated
- Immigration hardliners criticized Biden's "lawful pathways"
- Expedited removal expanded for up to two years
- Advocates fear swift deportations for vulnerable migrants
This new directive is part of a broader initiative by the Trump administration to reverse immigration policies established by its predecessor. The memo specifically targets individuals who entered through two significant programs aimed at providing lawful pathways for asylum seekers from countries like Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. Critics argue these programs were illegal and contributed to increased illegal immigration.
Key points regarding this policy shift include:
- More than 1 million migrants were allowed entry through humanitarian parole under Biden-era policies.
- The CBP One app’s scheduling function was terminated, leaving many waiting in Mexico.
- The memo suggests prioritizing cases where individuals have been present in the U.S. for up to two years without applying for asylum.
The implications of this memo raise concerns among immigrant advocates about potential deportations of individuals fleeing dangerous situations. They fear that expedited removals could lead to swift actions against those who may not have had time or resources to navigate complex asylum processes. The memo instructs ICE agents to review each case individually while considering whether continued parole is appropriate based on current circumstances.
This development signals a significant shift in immigration enforcement strategies under the Trump administration, with potential repercussions for millions of migrants currently residing in the U.S. The focus on rapid removals highlights ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policy and enforcement practices in North America.
