Washington, D.C (Washington Insider Magazine)— The Biden administration’s latest immigration restriction proposal aims to promptly identify and remove individuals, considering they pose a security danger to the United States. This measure, announced on Thursday, is intended to speed the denial of asylum requests and prompt deportations.
Targeted Group and Timing
Officials assert that this rule will primarily affect a small subset of individuals, particularly those considered a risk to national and public security. This move comes amidst heightened attention to immigration issues ahead of the November elections, with Republicans criticizing the Biden administration’s approach as too lenient, while progressive Democrats advocate for greater migrant protection.
Focus on Serious Crimes
According to BBC, as outlined by the Department of Homeland Security, the rule targets individuals with convictions for serious crimes, including those related to terrorism or involvement in persecuting others. It also encompasses individuals reasonably believed to pose a danger to US security. While the denial of asylum to those deemed a public threat is not new under federal law, the key change lies in the timing of this denial.
Shift in Asylum Process
Previously, individuals arriving at the border would be detained, and their asylum cases would undergo lengthy review processes. Border immigration agents will now be empowered to assess asylum claims and determine security threats during the initial “credible fear assessment” phase, conducted shortly after detention.
Streamlining Deportation Procedures
Border agents can now consider criminal records or terrorist ties during this assessment, potentially leading to expedited deportation without the need for further review by asylum agents or immigration courts. While the exact number of affected individuals remains unspecified, officials suggest it will be minimal.
Immigration Defender Concerns
Immigration advocates express concerns about measures that could make the initial assessment of fear more challenging for migrants, as the interview stage represents a vulnerable moment after enduring perilous journeys to reach the US.
Broader Immigration Policy Considerations
Secretary of National Security Alejandro Mayorkas emphasizes ongoing efforts to ensure public safety by swiftly identifying and removing security threats. However, he notes that comprehensive immigration reform ultimately requires congressional action.
Context and Previous Measures
Border apprehensions have surpassed 6.3 million during Biden’s term, exceeding levels seen in previous administrations. While border crossings spiked in December, recent months have seen a decline, partly due to enforcement efforts by the Mexican government. Last year, the Biden administration announced broader asylum restrictions, signaling a broader trend towards tightening immigration policies.
Electoral Implications
With immigration at the forefront of electoral debates, further measures to restrict immigration are anticipated before the November elections.
