Inside Stephen Miller's Reign of Terror: A Look at the Lasting Impact on Immigration Policy
PALM BEACH, FL - It was after 3 a.m. on Nov. 6 last year when Stephen Miller, then 39 years old and a key policy driver in the Trump administration, stood near the reception desk of the Hilton West Palm Beach. The jubilant atmosphere in the lobby was palpable as Republican donors, campaign staff, and attendees celebrated Donald Trump's election victory.
Miller, who would soon become the White House's undisputed orchestrator of policies and executive authority, had been instrumental in shaping the administration's immigration agenda. His efforts led to significant changes that continue to affect the country today, according to senior officials in President Joe Biden's administration.
"We're still living with the damage done during Trump's first term," said a senior official, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "The policies Miller championed have had a lasting impact on our immigration system."
Miller's influence on immigration policy began early in the Trump administration. He played a key role in implementing measures such as the travel ban targeting predominantly Muslim countries and the end to Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), which protected young undocumented immigrants brought to the United States as children.
The Biden administration, despite its efforts to undo some of these policies, was unable to fully reverse the damage. "We tried to roll back some of the more egregious changes, but it's been a tough road," said another senior official. "Miller's legacy continues to shape our immigration system."
Critics argue that Miller's policies have had devastating consequences for immigrant communities and the economy. "The harm caused by these policies is still being felt today," said Maria Rodriguez, executive director of the National Immigration Law Center. "We're seeing families torn apart, workers struggling to find employment, and a broken immigration system that's costing taxpayers billions."
Supporters of Miller's policies argue that they were necessary to protect national security and American jobs. "Miller was a key architect of our immigration agenda, and his efforts have helped to make America safer and more prosperous," said a Trump administration official.
The current status of these policies remains uncertain as the Biden administration continues to grapple with their legacy. The White House has announced plans to review and reform the immigration system, but it's unclear how far-reaching these changes will be.
As Miller's influence on immigration policy continues to shape the country's future, one thing is clear: his reign of terror has left a lasting impact that will take years to undo.
*Reporting by Rollingstone.*
