White House announces historic tightening of US immigration policy

Text directly criticizes the previous period, under the command of Joe Biden, claiming that immigration courts had become excessively permissive

KENT NISHIMURA / AFP

The White House stated, in an official statement, that the United States has experienced a profound change in immigration policy since President Donald Trump’s return to power. According to the note, the government is promoting the “most aggressive and successful reformulation” of immigration enforcement in the country’s modern history.

The text directly criticizes the previous period, under the command of Joe Biden, alleging that immigration courts had become excessively permissive, with high rates of granting asylum and prolonged delays in processes. The current administration claims that it replaced judges considered “activists” with judges aligned with the strict application of immigration laws.

Reduction in asylum grants

According to the statement, the approval rate for asylum applications has dropped to around 7%, a level described as “historic” by the White House. During the previous government, this index would have exceeded 50%, according to data presented by the current administration.

Increase in deportations and judicial decisions

The note also highlights a significant increase in deportation orders. In fiscal year 2025, immigration courts would have issued nearly 500,000 removal decisions – a 57% increase over the previous year. The government claims that the new rhythm reflects greater efficiency and agility in trials.

Reduction of process backlog

Another point emphasized is the reduction of the backlog in immigration courts. According to the White House, hundreds of thousands of cases have already been resolved since Trump took office, reducing delays that previously allowed immigrants to remain in the country for long periods while awaiting a court decision.

Exit of millions of immigrants

The government also claims that more than three million undocumented immigrants left the United States during Trump’s second term, which it called the largest reduction in illegal immigration in recent history. Additionally, the administration says no irregular immigrants have been released at the border for 11 consecutive months.

Debate and controversy

Experts and human rights organizations, however, often warn that stricter policies could raise concerns about due process and access to the asylum system – an issue that remains at the center of political debate in the United States.

The White House concludes that the measures represent the end of practices such as “capture and release” and promises to maintain a hard line in immigration enforcement. The topic remains one of the most polarized on the national agenda, with direct impacts on the country’s domestic politics and international relations.

*This text does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Jovem Pan.

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