Title: Biden Administration Weighing New Asylum Restrictions in Exchange for Aid to Ukraine and Israel
Guam News Factor – In a bid to secure aid for Ukraine and Israel, the Biden administration is considering imposing new restrictions on who can seek asylum and expanding the deportation process. The move comes as the White House and U.S. Congress work to address illegal immigration concerns along the U.S.-Mexico border.
Under pressure from Republicans, who have demanded additional measures to curb illegal border crossings in exchange for approving Ukraine funding, President Biden has shown a willingness to make concessions on border security to secure the aid package.
One potential measure being discussed is the possibility of heightening the standard for initial asylum screenings. This would ensure that only those who meet stricter criteria are eligible for asylum.
Another consideration is the implementation of a “safe third country” provision, which would allow the U.S. to deny asylum claims if the individual has already passed through a country considered to be safe.
In addition, there is talk of expanding the fast-track deportation process known as “expedited removal” nationwide to expedite the removal of individuals who have entered the country illegally.
While a bipartisan group of senators is contemplating a numerical limitation on asylum claims, it remains unclear where the Biden administration stands on this particular issue.
The aim is to reach a top-line deal before lawmakers depart for the Christmas break, with the finer details of the legislative text to be worked out later.
Senator Chris Coons acknowledges the significant gap that still exists between Democrats and Republicans on the matter. However, he remains optimistic about finding common ground and reaching a compromise.
Meanwhile, a White House spokesperson has criticized Republicans for playing with national security and warned that history will remember them harshly.
Republican Senator Thom Tillis believes there is still much work to be done and is unsure if a deal can be reached before Christmas. He highlights the complexities surrounding this issue and the challenges of finding consensus.
As negotiations continue, it remains to be seen how the Biden administration will strike a balance between securing aid for Ukraine and Israel while addressing the concerns of Republicans regarding illegal immigration at the U.S.-Mexico border.
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