Some Republicans in Congress are breaking away from the Trump administration over its strict policies on immigration from Afghanistan. This is especially concerning for Afghan refugees, many of whom aided U.S. military efforts.
In the past year, the U.S. paused visas and other programs for Afghans. Those already in the country have faced the threat of losing their temporary permissions to stay. The situation worsened when an Afghan national was charged in the shooting of a National Guard member in Washington, D.C.
Senator Thom Tillis from North Carolina urged caution against a quick response that could block Afghans with legitimate immigration claims. He noted that many of these individuals are closely connected to U.S. troops, and losing sight of their plight could put them in jeopardy.
Similarly, Senator Susan Collins from Maine expressed concern for Afghans who have worked as interpreters and drivers for U.S. forces. Many veterans are anxious about the safety of these individuals, suggesting that more thorough vetting is needed compared to the Biden administration’s approach.
Although some Republicans support strict immigration measures, there is a clear divide. While President Trump is focused on the largest deportation strategy in U.S. history, others, including Collins, advocate for careful consideration of those who have served alongside U.S. troops.
Interestingly, recent data shows that Afghanistan was among the top countries sending refugees to the U.S. In the 2024 fiscal year, over 100,000 refugees were admitted, with about 14,680 from Afghanistan alone. The country is now grappling with significant cuts to refugee programs, primarily affecting those who collaborated with U.S. military efforts.
There has been a shift in candidate support, with some Republicans urging for more permanent residency solutions for Afghan allies. Recent legislation seeks to bring back a specialized office at the State Department dedicated to relocating Afghan refugees, but GOP leaders have stripped these provisions in negotiations.
As the situation evolves, questions about Congress’s role in immigration policy remain prominent. Activists argue that lawmakers have ceded too much power to the executive branch, failing to protect the rights and safety of vulnerable populations. With immigration known to be a thorny issue, bipartisan cooperation appears critically needed but remains elusive.
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