Judge Blocks Biden's Immigrant Spouse Program

A federal judge in Texas has upheld a temporary block on President Biden's 'Keeping Families Together' program, which aimed to provide a pathway to citizenship for undocumented spouses and stepchildren of U.S. citizens. U.S. District Judge J. Campbell Barker's ruling will remain in effect until at least September 23, allowing time for further legal proceedings initiated by Texas and 15 other Republican-led states. The program was designed to assist approximately 500,000 immigrants who entered the U.S. illegally, permitting them to apply for legal status without returning to their home countries. Critics argue that the initiative oversteps executive authority and undermines existing immigration laws. The ruling potentially affects thousands of immigrants, particularly Haitians, who were hoping for relief from deportation and a chance to stay with their families. Meanwhile, President Biden has expressed disappointment, emphasizing the importance of keeping families together amidst ongoing immigration debates ahead of the upcoming elections.