Trump administration officials insist there will be “no amnesty” while carrying out mass deportations, but some Republicans told NOTUS that behind the scenes, they’re advocating for some immigrants to stay.
It’s another sign President Donald Trump’s allies in Congress are grappling with the administration’s ambitious arrest quotas, and they’re realizing its targets for deportation aren’t limited to violent criminals and gang members.
Republican lawmakers pointed to stories of longtime residents and workers getting arrested as reasons for members of Congress to intervene. Others said they often help people with visas, or that they’re advocating for immigrants who hope to obtain permanent legal status. But most said they support the Trump administration’s immigration agenda, even if they’re stepping in on behalf of some people who face removal.