Chicago – December 11, 2024
Democratic senators are urging President Joe Biden to extend temporary protections for migrants before he leaves office, warning that millions could be sent back to dangerous countries when President-elect Donald Trump takes over.
The senators have been quietly asking the White House to take actions that would continue protections for migrants even under Trump’s presidency, and the administration is considering what steps to take.
However, any actions from Biden’s administration would come after an election where Trump won with promises to enforce stricter immigration laws. The Democratic Party is also debating how to handle immigration issues after their election losses.
Earlier this week, the Biden administration made a rule permanent that extends work permits for asylum seekers, but no other major changes have been made. With just weeks left in office, several Democratic senators spoke out publicly on Wednesday to push for more action.
Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) stressed the urgency, saying, “The next 40 days will remain crucial.” Senators are urging the White House to renew Temporary Protected Status for migrants from Nicaragua, Ecuador, and El Salvador, and speed up renewals for DACA recipients.
