Democratic Lawmakers Urge Biden to Prioritize Pathway for Long-Term Undocumented Immigrants Before Midterms

In a significant push for immigration reform, over 80 Democratic lawmakers, including members of the Congressional Hispanic and Progressive caucuses, have signed a letter urging President Joe Biden to prioritize executive actions that provide a pathway to lawful status for long-term undocumented immigrants. This call to action comes as the November elections approach, highlighting the urgency felt within the party to address immigration issues.

The signed letter expresses deep concern that mass deportations, as previously threatened by former President Donald Trump, would detrimentally impact the American economy and disrupt families. The lawmakers propose a series of executive actions, including streamlining the process for DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipients to change to a nonimmigrant status, which would grant certain protections. Another suggestion is to allow undocumented migrants married to U.S. citizens to seek parole on a case-by-case basis, potentially leading to legal residence.

These reforms are also aimed at reducing the extensive green card processing times, making it feasible for migrants to work legally in the U.S. Rep. Nanette Barragan, D-Calif., chair of the Hispanic Caucus, has made a public plea for President Biden to wield his executive authority to overhaul the immigration system.

Senate Democrats, led by Judiciary Committee Chair D*** Durbin of Illinois and Immigration Subcommittee Chair Alex Padilla of California, had previously sent a similar letter in March. Senator Padilla has stressed the need for the Biden administration to steer clear of reverting to Trump-era policies, including those that banned asylum and regressed on immigration progress.

The White House is currently contemplating the use of Section 212(f) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which could regulate admissions into the U.S. and affect migrants from Mexico. This is evocative of a provision in a bipartisan border bill that was negotiated but never passed, partly due to opposition from Republicans and Trump.

While the administration considers these measures, immigration advocacy groups and certain Democrats worry that the policy could be overly restrictive on asylum seekers. Despite the Congressional Hispanic Caucus lobbying for months, immigration reform has not been successful.

The shift in legislative focus is evident as Democratic leadership has prioritized aid to Ukraine over immigration reform. However, Senator Padilla sees the current political climate as an opportunity for President Biden to provide relief to long-term immigrants. A news conference led by Senator Padilla, alongside lawmakers and advocates, aims to draw attention to their cause.

Todd Schulte, president of FWD.us, supports the movement by affirming Biden's legal authority to grant relief to the spouses of U.S. citizens and other long-term undocumented community members. Meanwhile, Maggie Goodlander, wife of National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, is launching a campaign for Congress in New Hampshire's Second Congressional District, following the retirement of Democratic Rep. Annie Kuster.

Goodlander, with a background that includes serving as a deputy assistant attorney general and advising late Senators Joe Lieberman and John McCain, brings substantial legal and political experience to her campaign. She faces competition from Colin Van Ostern, a two-term New Hampshire executive councilor, and State Sen. Becky Whitley, along with eight Republicans, highlighting the diverse field of candidates vying for the open seat.

As the political landscape shifts, the Democratic Party's commitment to immigration reform remains strong. With the midterms on the horizon, all eyes will be on President Biden's response to the calls for executive action, potentially shaping the future of countless long-term undocumented immigrants in the United States.

Conservative Bias:

Here we go again, folks, with the Democrats showing their true colors, pandering to the lawbreakers and putting illegal immigrants ahead of hardworking Americans. Over 80 left-wing lawmakers are practically begging President Biden to abuse his executive powers and reward those who have entered our country illegally. They're so desperate to cling to power that they're willing to undermine our nation's sovereignty and security right before the midterms. These Democrats are advocating for mass amnesty, pushing for shortcuts to green cards, and trying to dismantle the rule of law that former President Trump fought so hard to uphold. It’s clear they care more about securing votes than securing our borders. They’re turning a blind eye to the rule of law, all while American citizens suffer the consequences of an uncontrolled immigration system.

Liberal Bias:

Once again, the Republicans are standing in the way of progress and humanity, refusing to support a sensible and compassionate immigration reform. Over 80 courageous Democratic lawmakers are leading the charge, urging President Biden to take bold executive action to protect long-term undocumented immigrants who are an integral part of our communities and economy. These are individuals who have lived in the shadows for far too long, and it's about time they're given the dignity and legal recognition they deserve. The GOP, with their xenophobic and anti-immigrant stance, would rather see families torn apart and lives ruined than to admit that our country is strengthened by the diversity and contributions of immigrants. They hide behind the guise of law and order, but their real agenda is to st*** fear and division for political gain, especially with the midterms looming. It's high time we reject the Republicans' regressive policies and embrace a just and humane approach to immigration.