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How Will Immigration Law Change if Trump is Elected?

If Donald Trump is re-elected in 2024, significant changes in U.S. border policies are expected. Trump had pursued strict immigration policies during his first term and plans to tighten these policies further if elected for a second term. Trump’s immigration policy could include the following:

  1. Cancellation of Temporary Protection Programs  

   Trump plans to terminate programs like Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). These programs allow approximately 1.4 million people to live and work legally in the United States. Their cancellation could result in these individuals losing their status and facing deportation.

  1. Suspension of the Refugee Program  

   Trump aims to completely suspend the U.S. refugee program. During his first term, he significantly reduced the number of refugees admitted. This policy would greatly reduce the chance for people fleeing persecution worldwide to seek asylum in America.

  1. Use of the Alien Enemies Act  

   Trump plans to use the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to deport members of gangs and drug cartels. However, the implementation of this law may face various legal challenges, as it was originally designed to be used against foreign nationals during wartime.

  1. Ideological Screening  

   Trump intends to introduce strict ideological screenings for immigrants, targeting those who support groups like Hamas, communism, Marxism, or fascism. This policy also includes revoking visas of foreign students participating in pro-Palestinian demonstrations. Such screenings could make it more difficult for immigrants to enter the United States and potentially exclude certain groups.

  1. Cancellation of Work Permits for Asylum Seekers Entering from the Mexican Border  

   Trump plans to end work permits for individuals without legal status in the United States. This could result in thousands of people losing their jobs and experiencing economic hardship.

Mass deportation operations and the completion of the southern border wall are also among Trump’s most discussed promises.

It is important to consider the legal challenges and public reaction Trump may face in implementing these policies. However, if Trump is elected and these policies are enacted, they could lead to historic changes in America’s immigration policies.