Obstacles for Immigration Reforms Under Trump

Advocates for deported veterans are expressing concern over the potential impact of Donald Trump's election victory and Republican control of Congress on their efforts to pass the Veterans Service Recognition Act, which aims to provide a pathway to citizenship for around 40,000 non-citizen military members. Robert Vivar, Director of the Unified U.S. Deported Veterans Resource Center, highlighted that the bill would prevent future deportations for veterans convicted of crimes and allow for the review of deportation cases. Meanwhile, Trump's immigration reform plans face hurdles in the Senate, primarily due to Senate Parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough, who has historically ruled against the inclusion of immigration policies in budget reconciliation bills. This legislative process allows Republicans to bypass a filibuster but is subject to strict rules about what can be included, complicating efforts to enact comprehensive immigration changes. While some border security measures could pass, significant reforms to asylum and parole laws may struggle under the Byrd Rule. The situation reflects a growing tension between veteran advocacy and immigration policy, with both groups facing uncertain futures in light of the new political landscape.