Venezuelans in the US Between Temporary Protection and Deportations, Immigration Policy under the Biden Administration

Changes in U.S. Immigration Policy

Immigration policy has been a centerpiece of the agendas of the U.S. presidents in recent years. Joe Biden, in particular, has faced significant challenges in this regard. The continuous waves of migrants, especially in big cities like New York, have had an impact on the policies adopted and decisions taken by the current Government.

Joe Biden promised not to continue construction of the border wall during his campaign, but has been forced to Rethink this decision. One of the main reasons for this change is the deadline to use funds appropriated by Congress in 2019 to build a border barrier. These funds, that must be spent before the end of fiscal year 2023, are being used for barriers in South Texas, a high-traffic area.

Political Decisions and Their Implications

Despite Biden's decision to continue border barriers It is based on the allocation of funds and deadlines, it has generated tensions. Democratic-leaning cities and states are calling for more federal intervention to manage the growing arrival of migrants. Mayors like Eric Adams of New York have expressed their frustration, and some, like Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, have sought greater coordination with the White House

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There are 5000 Venezuelans waiting in Mexico to cross the border into the US. As inflation puts more people into poverty the border crisis will get worse. Food and shelter will get more scarce. #BorderCrisis #migrantcrisis pic.twitter.com/bCVN1mpEY5

— Blue Bay Network (@BlueBayNetwork) October 4, 2023

The mayor of New York, in an attempt to address the crisis, has embarked on a trip through Latin America. The visit seeks to offer an understanding deeper into the migration situation and countering misinformation that may be driving migrants to head to the U.S.

Still, recent decisions by the Biden administration have caused tensions. both nationally and internationally. Expanding the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program for Venezuelan asylum seekers have been viewed with skepticism by some. At the same time, deportations Massive Venezuelans have caused consternation.

A massive surge in migrants, mostly Venezuelans, crossing the Darien Gap (Panama)in their trek northward to the US
Just a few years ago it was almost unheard of for anyone to try to get through the Gap. There are no roads, only jungle. Dr. Benjamin Braddock pic.twitter.com/QKZVmbA5Fs

— AngryTBJ🍋 (@beerburp23) October 4, 2023

U.S. immigration policy is at a crossroads. The Decisions made now will affect not only those seeking a life better in the country, but also to the international image of the U.S. and to their ability to manage and support their internal communities. It's essential that a balance be struck between security, humanity and political responsibility in the coming months and years.