Former US President Donald Trump has unveiled a controversial plan that could see thousands of married immigrants stripped of their green cards and deported. The proposal, which targets those who initially entered the country unlawfully before marrying American citizens, marks a significant escalation in Trump's hardline immigration stance.
Policy Shake-Up Threatens Family Stability
The new rules would empower US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to revoke permanent residency status from immigrants who crossed borders illegally prior to marriage. This represents a dramatic departure from current protocols that generally protect such couples from deportation.
Legal Loophole Under Fire
At the heart of the proposal is the elimination of what Trump describes as an "immigration backdoor." Currently, many immigrants who entered without documentation can adjust their status through marriage to US citizens. The planned changes would close this pathway, affecting potentially tens of thousands of families.
Human Rights Groups Sound Alarm
Immigration advocates have condemned the proposal, warning it could tear families apart and create widespread uncertainty. "This isn't just about immigration enforcement," said one activist. "It's about punishing American citizens who fell in love with someone from another country."
Political Motivations Suspected
Analysts suggest the timing aligns with Trump's expected 2024 presidential campaign, where immigration is likely to feature prominently. The move could energize his conservative base while drawing sharp criticism from Democrats and moderate voters.
The policy would require congressional approval, making its implementation uncertain. However, experts warn that even the proposal alone could have chilling effects on immigrant communities and binational marriages.
