The Trump administration asserted on Monday that its immigration policies have significantly curtailed both illegal and legal immigration, claiming "no one has done more" in recent U.S. history.
Speaking from the White House, spokesperson Karoline Leavitt emphasized the government's actions to bolster border security, limit migration flows, and ensure that those entering the country "contribute positively to American welfare and culture."
"I would argue that the Trump administration has done more to limit migration, both illegal and legal, than any administration in history," Leavitt declared.
The spokesperson highlighted measures such as a travel ban affecting 19 countries, including Afghanistan, and the suspension of special immigrant visas which provided a legal pathway into the United States.
She explained that Afghan refugee admissions were halted following last week's shooting, and refugee admissions overall remain "at minimal levels."
Leavitt stressed that the State Department has increased scrutiny and background checks across all visa categories and has revoked permits "for those misaligned with national interests."
Additionally, she confirmed that asylum adjudications are on hold pending further review of the system.
"The president has made tremendous progress on this front," she added, noting that the southern border is under control, with a "dramatic reduction" in the influx of illegal immigrants.
Leavitt also emphasized that holding a U.S. visa "is not a right, but a privilege," and that Secretary of State Marco Rubio can revoke this benefit if it conflicts with national interests.
She concluded that the Trump administration's priority is ensuring future citizens "love America, add value, and integrate into its culture," reminding that leaders must "defend and promote the interests of their own people, not foreigners."
The White House's statement, asserting "no one has done more" to curb legal and illegal immigration than Donald Trump, is part of a series of recent measures reflecting a radical shift in U.S. immigration policy.
Following a recent attack on U.S. soil, the administration ordered a complete halt to asylum decisions, leaving thousands of applicants in limbo.
This action was accompanied by a broader announcement: Trump stated he would suspend migration from so-called "third world" countries, citing national security concerns.
Additionally, the immigration policy has introduced unprecedented actions, such as the proposal to revoke citizenship from naturalized immigrants if their process is found to be "flawed" or "contradictory to national interests."
This hardline approach has been presented by the administration as a "historic advancement," which, according to its spokespersons, has achieved the most significant decrease in border crossings in over a decade.
Understanding Trump's Immigration Policy
What measures did the Trump administration implement to curb immigration?
The Trump administration implemented various measures including a travel ban on 19 countries, increased scrutiny on visa applications, halted asylum adjudications, and proposed revoking citizenship for flawed naturalization processes.
How did the Trump administration justify its immigration policies?
The administration justified its policies by highlighting national security concerns and the need to ensure immigrants contribute positively to American welfare and culture.
What impact did these policies have on refugee admissions?
Refugee admissions, particularly from Afghanistan, were significantly reduced, with overall refugee admissions maintained at minimal levels.