During a Senate confirmation hearing, Joe Biden’s pick to run US Customs and Border Protection, Chris Magnus, expressed support for the Trump administration’s public health directive that permits for the quick expulsion of migrants.
Immigrant organizations and Democratic senators have opposed the authority, which the Biden administration continues to employ because it effectively prohibits people from seeking asylum at the US southern border.
Will Trump-Era Policies Make a Comeback?
The power, which comes from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is implemented by CBP agents. In response to a question from Republican Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa, Magnus stated:
“As a paramedic for ten years, public health has always been one of my top concerns, and because of that, I think it’s absolutely imperative that we do everything possible to stop the spread of Covid. And Title 42 is a CDC authority, and I think it helps with this,”
“CBP certainly has responsibility for implementing this policy. But here’s the bottom line, Senator, I will always comply with the law, even as it changes perhaps regarding Title 42, no matter what it is that the courts decide.”
Magnus is the current chief of police in Tucson, Arizona. He acknowledged the difficulty at the US-Mexico border throughout the hearing, noting high arrest statistics, and stated that he was committed to implementing the law in a humanitarian manner.
Senate Finance Chairman Ron Wyden has put a hold on Magnus’ nomination, citing unanswered questions regarding last year’s Portland protests. Magnus’ nomination has recently been resurrected thanks to further material submitted by the Department of Homeland Security. Considering all, it is unlikely that trump era policies will make a comeback.
Dial (818)900-5707 to get in touch with an immigration lawyer and learn more.
Image source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/waving-flag-of-united-states-of-america-4386426/