Immigrants now subject to evaluation for anti-American sentiments under the Trump administration's new policy.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a policy update that includes screening immigrants for "anti-Americanism" and any involvement in anti-American or terrorist organizations.
The new policy, according to USCIS spokesperson Matthew Tragesser, aims to ensure that America's benefits are not given to those who despise the country and promote anti-American ideologies. This update references the 1952 Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) for further clarification on "anti-Americanism."
The INA, enacted in 1952, includes provisions for banning members of various Communist parties, those who advocate for "world communism," those who write or distribute material in "opposition to all organized government," and whoever wish to overthrow the U.S. government by force or violence.
However, it's important to note that the term "Anti-Americanism" in the context of the new USCIS policy under the 1952 Immigration and Nationality Act is not explicitly defined. The policy allows immigration officers discretion to negatively consider applicants who support or promote anti-American ideologies or activities. This refers to a section of federal law that denies naturalization to persons hostile to the government or law, or who advocate totalitarian regimes.
The screening process will also check for evidence of antisemitic activity.
This policy update comes amidst comparisons to McCarthyism, a period of intense anti-communist suspicion and accusations in the 1950s. Critics, such as Aaron Reichlin-Melnick with the American Immigration Council, accuse the new USCIS policy of being too vague and using a term without precedent in immigration law.
In addition to the screening for "anti-Americanism," the policy update also emphasizes the enforcement of rigorous screening and vetting measures.
It's worth noting that more than 6,000 student visas have been revoked this year, with about 4,000 revoked due to students breaking the law while in the U.S., including records of assault and DUIs. Every student visa revoked under the Trump Administration has been due to the individual breaking the law or expressing support for terrorism while in the U.S., according to a statement to Fox News Digital.
The exact definition of "anti-Americanism" under this new policy remains to be seen, as it is left open for interpretation by immigration officers. The policy's impact and implications will continue to be a topic of discussion and debate in the coming weeks and months.
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