The administration of President Donald Trump sharply criticized the recent court decision that upholds the humanitarian parole program implemented by the government of Joe Biden, labeling it as an obstacle to justice and a threat to national security.
In a statement published this Tuesday on the social media platform X, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) under Republican leadership accused Biden's immigration policy of having "released more than 530,000 poorly evaluated foreigners in the United States."
According to the message, this situation has fueled crime and displaced American workers, in addition to forcing immigration agents to "ignore rampant fraud."
"While this ruling delays justice and undermines the integrity of our immigration system, Secretary Noem will utilize all available legal options within the Department to put an end to this chaos, prioritizing the safety of Americans," concludes the official message from DHS.
These statements come after a federal judge in the United States issued a court order on Monday that represents a significant setback to the Trump administration's attempts to dismantle the humanitarian parole program, an immigration policy that has benefited over 530,000 immigrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela.
As announced last week, Judge Indira Talwani, appointed by former President Barack Obama, accepted an emergency motion that temporarily suspends the massive revocation of permits granted under this program, determining that the government's decision lacks the necessary case-by-case review required by law.
Judge Talwani expressed serious concern over the fact that the Trump administration attempted to end the program without individually assessing the circumstances of each beneficiary.
"The Court considers that the plaintiffs have standing to challenge the reduction of their participation in the program," Talwani wrote in her court order, noting that these immigrants have the right to work legally if authorized and can also apply for status adjustment or other benefits.
The judge indicated that if the program were eliminated without these guarantees, these individuals would face a distressing dilemma: "Follow the law and leave the country on their own, or wait for the expulsion process."
The court's decision comes after, last March, the U.S. DHS announced the termination of humanitarian parole programs for citizens of Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, as well as for their immediate family members. These programs allowed the temporary entry of migrants for humanitarian reasons or significant public interest.
The decision is in response to Executive Order 14165 issued by President Donald Trump on January 20, 2025, which mandates securing the border and ending categorical parole programs.
Frequently asked questions about humanitarian parole and the Trump administration
What is humanitarian parole?
The humanitarian parole is a program created by the Joe Biden administration to facilitate the temporary entry of migrants from Cuba, Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Haiti. This program provides a safe and regulated channel for those seeking to escape difficult situations in their home countries.
Why does the Trump administration criticize humanitarian parole?
The Trump administration criticizes humanitarian parole because it sees it as a threat to national security and an abuse of power. It argues that this program did not reduce irregular migration or improve border security, in addition to placing strains on public resources and the immigration judicial system.
What measures has Trump taken against humanitarian parole?
The president Donald Trump has decided to revoke the legal status of humanitarian parole starting April 24, 2025. This means the termination of work permits and the possibility of deportation for those who do not have another legal basis to remain in the United States.
What does the revocation of parole imply for Cubans in the U.S.?
For Cubans in the U.S., the revocation of parole means loss of their legal status and work authorization. Those who have not applied for another immigration benefit, such as asylum or adjustment of status under the Cuban Adjustment Act, could face expedited deportation.
What alternatives do parole beneficiaries have after its revocation?
Beneficiaries of parole can explore other avenues to regularize their status, such as applying for political asylum or participating in temporary protection programs, provided they meet the requirements. However, not all options are feasible for everyone, and they face legal and bureaucratic hurdles.
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