Biden’s Shocking Immigration Policy Sparks Debate Over Security and Exemptions

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The Biden administration’s 2024 immigration policy has sparked significant debate due to exemptions granted for individuals previously restricted from U.S. entry for terrorism affiliations.

At a Glance

  • 7,000 exemptions granted to immigrants previously under terrorism-related restrictions.
  • Mainly benefits Afghan refugees and individuals who offered limited support to terrorist entities.
  • Security concerns arise despite rigorous vetting claims by the Department of Homeland Security.
  • The refugee admission cap increased significantly under President Biden compared to the Trump era.

Significant Exemptions Under Revised Policy

The Biden administration’s changes to immigration policy have allowed approximately 7,000 individuals to enter the United States despite past restrictions due to terrorism-related issues. This decision aims to support refugees, particularly Afghans, in light of the 2021 Taliban takeover. Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas emphasized the need to honor commitments to U.S. allies while ensuring that only individuals who pose no security risk are granted entry.

This revised policy indicates a marked increase in admissions, moving from 2,085 exemptions in FY 2023 to almost 7,000 in FY 2024. The increased refugee cap, set at 125,000, is a clear departure from the previous administration’s limit of 18,000. This uptick showcases the current administration’s broader stance on immigration.

Diverse Backgrounds of Exempted Individuals

The exemptions provided under the 2007 authority cover those who offered support under duress, including civil servants and Afghan allies. Notably, 2,946 individuals received waivers due to pressure-driven actions. According to DHS, only those who went through rigorous vetting were granted these exemptions, ensuring competent evaluation of the applicants’ backgrounds and intentions.

“These exemptions will allow eligible individuals who pose no national security or public safety risk to receive asylum, refugee status, or other legal immigration status, demonstrating the United States’ continued commitment to our Afghan allies and their family members.” – DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas

Beyond refugees, exemptions also applied to asylum applicants, green card holders, and those under Temporary Protected Status. Such a diverse scope of beneficiaries shows a wide application of the discretionary authority by the DHS. Such policies have attracted criticism, particularly from conservatives wary of potential security threats stemming from leniency.

Concerns Over National Security

Republicans have expressed caution over the expanded immigration pathways, stressing potential threats to national security. Skeptics argue this policy may lead to unintended security implications, despite the administration’s emphasis on comprehensive vetting processes. Concerns persist that the broad definition of terrorism-related activities may result in unpredicted future risks.

“Islamic terrorism is not ‘homegrown’—it’s been imported to the U.S. through our broken immigration system and open border. The Biden administration has not only failed its duty to address this rising threat, but precipitated it.” – Michael Bars

The fierce debate over immigration policy reflects widespread concern about maintaining balance between honorably upholding international obligations and safeguarding national security. As policy shifts are further scrutinized, the administration continues to advocate for its vetting procedures and strategic decisions.

Sources:

  1. Biden DHS exempted thousands of immigrants from terror-related entry restrictions in FY 2024
  2. Terrorism-Related Inadmissibility Grounds (TRIG)