In the lead-up to the crucial US Presidential election later this year, incumbent President Joe Biden is expected to make a significant announcement regarding immigration, a topic often fraught with controversy.
Neera Tanden, Biden’s domestic policy advisor, provided some insight during her speech at the USISPF Summit in Washington DC. She emphasized America’s role as a magnet for talented immigrants worldwide, many of whom arrive for higher education.
However, she criticized the current policy, describing it as “topsy-turvy” because it often results in sending these skilled individuals back to their home countries. Tanden lamented that this practice causes America to miss out on essential innovations these immigrants could contribute globally.
While Tanden refrained from disclosing specific details, citing it as the President’s prerogative to make the official announcement, US media reports have speculated on the potential content.
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Sources suggest that Biden may issue an executive order aimed at protecting undocumented spouses of American citizens, a move that could affect approximately 500,000 individuals. This anticipated policy change is perceived as an effort to appeal to Latino voters, a critical demographic in the upcoming election.
Reflecting on past initiatives, under President Obama, the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program was launched, providing deportation relief to over 500,000 individuals brought to the US as children. This historical context underscores the ongoing evolution of immigration policies in the US.
According to Pew Research Center estimates from 2021, Indians represent the third largest group of undocumented immigrants in the US, following those from Mexico and El Salvador. The research also noted an increase in undocumented immigrants from India, Guatemala, and Honduras starting in 2017.
As the election approaches, Biden’s forthcoming announcement on immigration is poised to be a significant moment, reflecting his administration’s stance and potentially shaping the future of US immigration policy.