Federal Judge Halts Trump-Era Plan to Strip Protections from 1M Venezuelans and Haitians

Judge Blocks Ending of Legal Protections for 1M Venezuelans and Haitians in US A federal judge has ruled against the Trump administration's attempt to end temporary protected status (TPS) granted by the Biden administration, allowing more than 1 million people from Haiti and Venezuela to continue living and working in the United States. US District Judge Edward Chen of San Francisco issued a ruling on Friday, stating that the actions of Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem exceeded her statutory authority and were arbitrary. The decision means that approximately 600,000 Venezuelans whose TPS expired in April or was set to expire on September 10 will be able to stay and work in the US. "This is a huge victory for the Venezuelan community," said Maria Rodriguez, a lawyer representing the plaintiffs. "The judge's ruling recognizes that the Trump administration's actions were unlawful and arbitrary." TPS is a temporary legal status granted by the US government to individuals from countries affected by conflict, natural disasters, or other extraordinary circumstances. The Biden administration had extended TPS for Venezuelans and Haitians in 2022, but the Trump administration attempted to terminate it. The ruling has significant implications for the Venezuelan community, which has been living in limbo since April when their TPS expired. Many have been forced to leave the country or live without legal status, making them vulnerable to deportation. "This decision is a testament to the resilience and determination of the Venezuelan community," said Rodriguez. "We will continue to fight for their rights and ensure that they are treated with dignity and respect." The Trump administration's attempt to end TPS was met with widespread criticism from immigration advocates and lawmakers. The Biden administration had argued that terminating TPS would have devastating consequences for the affected communities. "This ruling is a major setback for the Trump administration's efforts to undermine the rights of immigrants," said Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ), who has been a vocal advocate for TPS holders. "We will continue to fight for their protection and ensure that they are treated with fairness and compassion." The current status of TPS holders remains uncertain, but the ruling provides temporary relief for those affected. The Department of Homeland Security is expected to appeal the decision, which could lead to further litigation. As the situation unfolds, immigration advocates are urging lawmakers to pass legislation that would provide permanent protection for TPS holders. "This ruling is a step in the right direction, but we must continue to push for comprehensive immigration reform," said Rodriguez. *Reporting by Theguardian.*