This summary from CNBC is a great overview of the numerous and varied ways the Trump administration threatens to weaken our country’s long-standing competitive advantages in education, innovation, and talent.
Timothy R. Bakken
Founder
Immigrants in Military at Risk of Deportation? /
In keeping with its pattern of scapegoating immigrants, the Trump government is now considering plans to discriminate against immigrants who are, and will be, putting their lives on the line to protect America. As explained by the Washington Post in this article, over 4000 naturalized U.S. citizens currently serving in the military may face “enhanced screening”. In addition, the Pentagon is considered canceling signed enlistment contracts of 1000 foreign born undocumented recruits with essential language and medical skills and training, thus exposing these heroic individuals to deportation.
Timothy R. Bakken
Founder
Immigration? While Trump Discourages, Trudeau Encourages /
It’s no secret that President Trump is trying to make it as difficult as possible for immigrants to come to the United States. Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau has been doing exactly the opposite. In fact, Canada has created a fast-track immigration process for high-skilled workers. To maintain a vibrant, innovative, and creative U.S. economy, Trump should follow Trudeau’s lead. Read the whole article here.
Most Americans Reject Travel Ban /
Two different versions of Trump’s travel ban have been put on hold by federal courts, and it seems unlikely that it will take effect anytime in the near future. A recent poll summarized by the New York Times reveals that most Americans do not agree with the travel ban. Trump will undoubtedly continue to push for his travel ban, despite his and the ban’s unpopularity, and despite the serious concerns that the ban violates the U.S. Constitution - let’s hope the Supreme Court agrees with the American public.
Timothy R. Bakken
Founder
DACA Lives on! /
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that DACA will continue. To quote the DHS: “DACA recipients will continue to be eligible as outlined in the June 15, 2012 memorandum…No work permits will be terminated prior to their current expiration dates.” The good news is buried in a DHS memo announcing the official rescission of DAPA (Obama’s proposed program to protect undocumented parents of U.S. citizens and permanent residents).
Timothy R. Bakken
Founder
Why Refugees Should be Welcome in America /
President Trump wants to cut the number of refugees welcome in the United States in less than half from 110,000 to 50,000. However, his new plan will only hurt the United States. Not only is it illegal under the Refugee Act of 1980, but it also hurts the United States economy. For example, studies show that refugees are more likely than any other sector of the general population to start a business. Not to mention the fact that other countries such as Jordan, Lebanon, and Turkey are bearing the brunt of Syrian refugees which is destabilizing these nations even further. The vetting process for refugees to come to the United States is already very thorough, and we cannot give in to the fear of terrorism and turn a blind eye to the tens of thousands of people who are being turned away. Read the full New York Times article here.
Timothy R. Bakken
Founder