President Trump has consistently sought to curtail both legal and illegal immigration since taking office. The administration had previously halted immigrant visa processing for individuals from Brazil, Iran, Russia, and Somalia.
According to Tommy Pigott, Principal Deputy spokesperson for the U.S. State Department, the department will utilize its existing authority to deem potential immigrants ineligible if they are likely to become a public charge. "The State Department will use its long-standing authority to deem ineligible potential immigrants who would become a public charge on the United States and exploit the generosity of the American people," Pigott said.
The order is scheduled to take effect on January 21. As of now, a complete list of the 75 affected countries has not been publicly released. The State Department, under the leadership of Secretary of State Marco Rubio, will suspend visa processing while it reevaluates its procedures.
This action represents the latest in a series of policy changes enacted by the Trump administration to restrict immigration. Critics argue that these policies disproportionately affect vulnerable populations and undermine the principles of a nation built by immigrants. Supporters maintain that these measures are necessary to protect American taxpayers and ensure the long-term sustainability of social safety net programs. The State Department has not indicated when the reassessment of procedures will be completed or when visa processing will resume for the affected countries.
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