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Parole: What to know about the GOP’s latest border sticking point on January 24, 2024 at 11:00 am

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Senate negotiations over a border policy proposal tied to aid for Ukraine are snagged on the White House’s immigration parole authority, according to GOP senators who have publicly weighed in on the talks.

Parole, a key component of the Biden administration’s border management strategy, is the latest in a string of once-obscure immigration and border policies elevated to the political limelight amid wrangling over migration.

Parole is in essence the executive’s prerogative to allow a foreign national or a group of foreign nationals to enter the country and receive work authorization, bypassing the regular visa process.

But it’s also the issue that has most grated on Republicans throughout discussions. 

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For more than a month, GOP members have warned Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Biden administration officials involved in talks that negotiations with Sen. James Lankford (R-Okla.) must address the issue or the party will withhold its support for the burgeoning package.

“Not where things need to be,” Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) said when asked how close negotiators are on the subject. “We’ve still got more work to do. That’s something that we should make really clear to folks. For us to be successful and to get a majority of our conference, we’ve got to deliver a little bit more on the parole front or we could have real challenges.”

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) has been among the most prominent Republicans to beat the drum for parole changes, holding a press conference last week dedicated to the topic where he declared that without changes to the parole process, there will be no deal. 

The South Carolina senator pointed to statistics showing a gargantuan spike in those who have been granted parole since Biden took office and claimed the White House is abusing the authority. Prior to Biden’s tenure, the average per year hovered north of 5,000, rising to nearly 800,000 during fiscal 2022. 

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As of Tuesday, Graham said that his concerns have not been alleviated, but that negotiators are trying to address them.

Senate Minority Whip John Thune (R-S.D.), who appeared alongside Graham at the press conference, told reporters a day earlier that administration officials appear “more open” to parole changes, but that a strict cap on those granted that authority is unlikely. 

“There are some changes that will be made in parole that I think will get at the abuse and misuse of it,” Thune said. 

But administration officials, Senate Democrats, academics, immigration advocates and some labor leaders say culling parole would likely generate more chaos at the border and beyond. 

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“Working within the constraints of outdated immigration laws that Congress has failed to fix for decades, and that are directly contributing to the challenges we are facing at the border, this Administration has implemented a balanced approach that combines the largest expansion of lawful pathways in years with significantly strengthened consequences for those who cross unlawfully,” a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) spokesperson told The Hill. 

The talks, hosted by Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (I-Ariz.), have included technical advice provided by Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, who instituted the Biden administration’s use of parole as a means to attract migrants toward legal avenues of entering the United States, including through the CBP One app, which channels them to ports of entry.

The administration’s use of parole has drawn attention as a pathway for certain otherwise ineligible migrants to enter and work in the United States, and as a means for the Border Patrol to release certain migrants, a practice derided by some Republicans as “catch and release.”

Yet parole’s uses go far beyond the border enforcement actions that have soured Republicans on the practice.

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“Humanitarian parole is being used in really important ways,” Sen. Debbie Stabenow (Mich.), the No. 3 Senate Democrat, told The Hill, pointing to the use of the process to help Afghans who fled after the Taliban took control of the country in 2021. “It is a tool for any president that in some way has to be maintained. It would make absolutely no sense to do away with it.” 

Recipients of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) are allowed to travel internationally under advanced parole, which gives them pre-authorization to reenter the country.

The same travel use applies for certain permanent residency applicants who have work permits but have not yet received their green cards. 

“This is a critical tool to allow people that are here and contributing and paying taxes to be able to utilize until our Congress is finally able to get a federal immigration reform done. So it is an absolute critical, moral and economic tool,” said Rebecca Shi, executive director of the American Business Immigration Coalition.

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On the humanitarian end, parole is also used to allow quick access to U.S. hospitals to foreign nationals without visas either for emergency or specialized medical care not available to them.

It’s also an important family unification tool — essentially the only available legal framework for undocumented immigrants married to U.S. citizens to regularize their paperwork.

While the Border Patrol has at times used significant public benefit or humanitarian parole in individual cases, its use of parole generally falls under a different statute that allows officers to release parolees out of custody.

Migrants paroled under those circumstances are not eligible for work permits and are put in deportation proceedings.

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That use of parole has drawn the most heat for the Biden administration.

Yet a January analysis of apprehension and deportation numbers by the Cato Institute found that increased use of detention during the Trump administration did not increase repatriations — that released migrants are just as likely to be deported as detained migrants.

And the Biden administration is running a robust deportation machine: More than half of the border encounters since 2021 have resulted in removals, returns or expulsions.

“We have removed or returned more non-citizens without a basis to remain in the United States each day than at any time since fiscal year 2010. This includes over 482,000 individuals since May 12, who have been returned or repatriated and that includes more than 81,000 individual family unit members,” an administration official told reporters last week.

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“In fact, through the end of 2023 removals and returns exceed the number of removals and returns each fiscal year from 2015 to 2019. And daily removals and enforcement returns are nearly double what they were compared to our pre-pandemic average from 2014 to 2019.”

And parole, which has been in place in some form since the early 1900s, has historically proven an effective geopolitical tool for both Republican and Democratic administrations.

According to a Cato Institute paper last year, the U.S. government has issued parole to categories or populations of foreign nationals 123 times since 1952, when parole was first codified under that name.

The first use of parole for a group was for Hungarians escaping the 1956 Red Army invasion that crushed the country’s anti-Soviet revolution. 

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It was also used to receive Vietnamese, Laotian and Cambodian nationals after the Vietnam War, and most recently by the Biden administration to manage arrivals from Afghanistan, Ukraine, Haiti, Venezuela, Nicaragua and Colombia.

“As a result of these efforts, hundreds of thousands of noncitizens have followed lawful pathways and orderly processes instead of crossing illegally between ports of entry,” said the DHS spokesperson. 

“The fact remains that, for decades, Republican and Democratic Administrations alike have used parole authority on a case-by-case basis for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit.”

​ Senate negotiations over a border policy proposal tied to aid for Ukraine are snagged on the White House’s immigration parole authority, according to GOP senators who have publicly weighed in on the talks. Parole, a key component of the Biden administration’s border management strategy, is the latest in a string of once-obscure immigration and border… 

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The Cities Bracing for Trump’s Immigration Crackdown

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In the wake of Donald Trump’s recent election victory and his promise of “the largest deportation operation in American history,” several major U.S. cities are bracing for potentially seismic shifts in their economic and social landscapes. As the nation grapples with the implications of this proposed policy, urban centers that have long been havens for immigrant communities find themselves at the epicenter of a looming storm.

Los Angeles, often dubbed the “City of Angels,” stands to lose more than its celestial nickname suggests. As a primary gateway for immigrants, the city’s vibrant tapestry of cultures and its economic engine could face significant disruption. From the bustling streets of Koreatown to the sun-drenched orchards of the Central Valley, the absence of undocumented workers could leave gaping holes in the city’s workforce and cultural identity.

Across the country, New York City, with its iconic skyline and melting pot reputation, faces its own reckoning. The Big Apple’s 5.9 million immigrants, many of whom are undocumented, form the backbone of industries ranging from construction to healthcare. The potential exodus could transform neighborhoods like Jackson Heights and Flushing, altering the very essence of what makes New York a global city.In the Sunshine State, Miami’s tropical allure belies the turbulent times ahead. Home to 2.5 million immigrants, the city’s economy relies heavily on sectors like tourism and hospitality – industries where undocumented workers often fill crucial roles. The potential deportation of these workers could send shockwaves through Miami’s economic ecosystem, from South Beach’s glitzy hotels to the agricultural heartlands of South Florida.

Chicago, the “City of Big Shoulders,” may find those shoulders significantly weakened. With 1.7 million immigrants in its metropolitan area, the Windy City’s diverse neighborhoods and industries face an uncertain future. From the meatpacking plants to the tech startups, Chicago’s economic resilience could be tested like never before.

In the Lone Star State, Houston and Dallas stand as twin testaments to the complexities of immigration policy. These Texas titans, each home to large immigrant populations, could see their booming economies stumble. The construction sites that dot their ever-expanding skylines and the service industries that keep these cities humming could face unprecedented labor shortages.

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Out West, the San Francisco Bay Area’s reputation as a bastion of innovation and progress could be challenged. The region’s tech industry, often reliant on immigrant talent, might find itself grappling with a new reality. From Silicon Valley’s coding campuses to the agricultural expanses of the Central Valley, California’s economic powerhouse could face a reckoning. Phoenix, rising from the Sonoran Desert, could see its growth trajectory altered. As Arizona’s urban center, it stands at the forefront of the immigration debate, potentially facing not just economic impacts but social and political upheaval as well.

These cities, along with others like San Diego and Las Vegas, are not just facing potential economic disruptions. They are staring down the barrel of profound social change. Family separations, community fragmentation, and the erosion of cultural enclaves built over generations are all possible consequences of mass deportations. Moreover, the fiscal implications are staggering. Undocumented immigrants contribute billions in taxes annually, often without receiving the full benefits of their contributions. Their sudden absence could leave gaping holes in city budgets, potentially affecting public services and infrastructure projects.

As these urban centers brace for impact, the debate rages on. Supporters of stricter immigration policies argue for the need to enforce laws and protect American jobs. Critics warn of economic devastation and the unraveling of America’s urban fabric. What’s clear is that America’s cities stand at a crossroads. The coming months and years will likely reshape urban landscapes in ways both visible and invisible. From the foods we eat to the services we rely on, from the neighborhoods we call home to the very character of our cities, the impacts of this proposed immigration crackdown could be far-reaching and long-lasting. As the nation watches and waits, these cities – vibrant, diverse, and economically vital – find themselves on the front lines of a policy that could redefine what it means to be an American city in the 21st century.

Bolanle Media is excited to announce our partnership with The Newbie Film Academy to offer comprehensive courses designed specifically for aspiring filmmakers. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your skills, our resources will provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive world of screenwriting. Join us today to unlock your creative potential and take your first steps toward crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences. Let’s turn your ideas into impactful scripts together!

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How Trump’s Deportation Plans Could Reshape Major Cities

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In the wake of Donald Trump’s recent election victory, his ambitious plans for mass deportations have thrust America’s urban centers into the spotlight. As the nation grapples with the potential implications of what Trump calls “the largest deportation operation in American history,” cities across the country are bracing for significant changes that could reshape their economic, social, and cultural landscapes.

The stakes are particularly high for metropolitan areas like New York, Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas, and Miami, which host the largest populations of unauthorized immigrants. These cities, along with other major urban hubs such as Chicago, Washington D.C., and San Francisco, stand at the forefront of a looming transformation that could reverberate throughout the nation.

Economic Tremors

Economists warn that the proposed deportations could send shockwaves through urban economies. Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s, cautions that businesses would face “significant challenges” if a substantial number of immigrants were removed. Industries such as construction, hospitality, and healthcare—pillars of urban economies—could face severe labor shortages.

Joe Brusuelas, chief economist at RSM, emphasizes the potential ripple effects: “The native-born workforce cannot meet current labor demands.” This labor gap could lead to increased wages, potentially rekindling inflation—a concern that looms large over city planners and policymakers alike.

Community Fabric Under Strain

Beyond economic considerations, the social fabric of cities hangs in the balance. Elena, a Nicaraguan immigrant in Houston, voices a fear echoed in immigrant communities across the nation: “I’m scared… This is my home.” The threat of family separations, particularly in mixed-status households, casts a long shadow over urban neighborhoods.

Immigrant advocacy groups like FIEL are mobilizing, advising clients to prepare for “anything that can happen.” This atmosphere of uncertainty could lead to decreased community engagement and cooperation with local authorities, potentially impacting public safety and community cohesion.

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Cities at a Crossroads

As the debate intensifies, cities find themselves at a crossroads. Some, like New York and Los Angeles, have historically positioned themselves as “sanctuary cities,” often at odds with federal immigration enforcement. The impending clash between federal policy and local governance promises to be a defining feature of this new political landscape.

Meanwhile, the logistical challenges of implementing such a massive deportation operation remain daunting. Questions abound regarding detention facilities, transportation networks, and the sheer manpower required to carry out Trump’s vision.

Looking Ahead

As America’s urban centers brace for potential change, the full impact of Trump’s deportation plans remains to be seen. Legal challenges are all but certain, and the resilience of America’s cities will be put to the test.

What is clear is that the coming months and years will be pivotal for urban America. As Jason Miller, a senior Trump adviser, puts it, the plan is to “immediately reinstate” immigration policies from Trump’s first term. For America’s cities, this could mean a period of unprecedented change, challenge, and, potentially, transformation.

As the nation watches and waits, the story of America’s cities in the face of this ambitious deportation plan is just beginning to unfold. The outcome will undoubtedly shape the future of urban life in America for years to come.

Bolanle Media is excited to announce our partnership with The Newbie Film Academy to offer comprehensive courses designed specifically for aspiring screenwriters. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your skills, our resources will provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive world of screenwriting. Join us today to unlock your creative potential and take your first steps toward crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences. Let’s turn your ideas into impactful scripts together!

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Donald Trump Wins 2024 USA Election

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Based on the election results, Donald Trump has indeed won the 2024 U.S. presidential election, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris. Here’s an analysis of the key statistics and implications:

Electoral College Victory

Donald Trump has secured the presidency by winning crucial battleground states and flipping some key states that were previously held by Democrats. The final Electoral College tally is still being determined, but Trump has surpassed the 270 electoral votes needed to win.

Battleground State Performance

Trump’s victory was largely secured by winning several critical swing states:

  • Wisconsin: Trump’s win here was pivotal in securing his path to victory.
  • Pennsylvania: This state flipped back to Republican control.
  • Georgia: Another key state that Trump managed to win back.
  • Michigan: Trump successfully flipped this traditionally Democratic stronghold.

While the final popular vote tally is still being calculated, exit polls provide insight into voter priorities:

Congressional Control

The election results extend beyond the presidency:

Media Implications

The outcome of this election could be seen as a challenge to mainstream media narratives for several reasons:

  1. Polling Discrepancies: Many pre-election polls suggested a tight race or even a slight Harris advantage in key states. Trump’s victory, particularly in battleground states, may indicate that polls underestimated his support.
  2. Narrative Shifts: Throughout the campaign, much of the mainstream media focused on Trump’s legal challenges and controversies. His victory suggests that these issues may not have resonated with voters as much as economic and policy concerns.
  3. Voter Priorities: The emphasis on issues like the economy and immigration in voter decision-making may indicate a disconnect between media focus and voter concerns.
  4. Electoral Predictions: Many mainstream outlets were cautious about predicting a Trump victory, even as results began to favor him. This hesitancy could be seen as a reflection of broader media skepticism about Trump’s chances.
  5. Underestimation of Trump’s Base: The results suggest that Trump’s core support remained strong and potentially grew, despite negative coverage in much of the mainstream media.

It’s important to note that while the election outcome may challenge some media narratives, it doesn’t necessarily invalidate all mainstream reporting. The complex factors influencing voter behavior and the challenges of accurate political forecasting remain subjects of ongoing analysis and debate.

As the dust settles on this historic election, both the media and political analysts will likely engage in extensive reflection on the factors that led to Trump’s victory and the implications for future political coverage and analysis.

Bolanle Media is excited to announce our partnership with The Newbie Film Academy to offer comprehensive courses designed specifically for aspiring screenwriters. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your skills, our resources will provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive world of screenwriting. Join us today to unlock your creative potential and take your first steps toward crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences. Let’s turn your ideas into impactful scripts together!

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