Trump Plans Social Media Disclosure for Green Card Applicants

The Trump administration has proposed a new policy requiring green card and citizenship applicants in the U.S. to disclose their social media handles, a move that has sparked widespread condemnation as an infringement on free speech rights. This proposal expands existing requirements for visa applicants abroad and is positioned as a measure for enhanced identity verification and national security screening. Critics argue that this policy disproportionately targets immigrants who express pro-Palestinian views, particularly in light of recent events involving activists like Mahmoud Khalil. Experts warn that the requirement could chill free speech and exacerbate the climate of fear among those who may be scrutinized for their online activities. The proposal, which references Trump's earlier executive orders that laid the groundwork for a Muslim travel ban, is currently open for public feedback until May 5, with initial responses overwhelmingly opposed. Civil rights advocates argue it may violate First Amendment protections by discouraging lawful expression among immigrant communities.