Judge Strikes Down Biden Administration Immigrant Spouse Plan

A federal judge in Texas has struck down a Biden administration program aimed at providing a path to U.S. citizenship for undocumented immigrants married to American citizens.

At a Glance

Judge J. Campbell Barker ruled against the “Keeping Families Together” program.
The program would have benefited around 500,000 undocumented immigrants.
16 Republican-led states sued, claiming the administration lacked legal authority.
The program was only in place for a week before being blocked.

Judge Strikes Down Biden’s Immigration Program

U.S. District Judge J. Campbell Barker of the Eastern District of Texas has ruled against the Biden administration’s “Keeping Families Together” program. This initiative, launched in August, aimed to provide a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants married to American citizens who have resided in the U.S. for 10 years or more.

The program was designed to allow these immigrants to obtain green cards without leaving the country, a departure from the typical process which requires them to return to their home countries to complete the application. This often results in lengthy separations from their families.

BREAKING: A federal judge rules against President Biden's immigration program for spouses of U.S. citizens. https://t.co/b2zza4UCNq

— CBS News (@CBSNews) November 8, 2024

Legal Challenges and Republican Opposition

The ruling came in response to a lawsuit filed by 16 Republican-led states, spearheaded by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. These states argued that the Biden administration lacked the legal authority to implement such a program. Judge Barker agreed, stating that the administration overstepped its bounds in granting “parole” status to immigrants already in the country illegally.

The program, which was only active for a week before initially being blocked, was expected to benefit approximately half a million undocumented immigrants. It would have provided work permits, deportation protections, and a path to permanent residency for eligible individuals.

Implications and Future Uncertainties

The Justice Department may appeal the ruling, but the program faces significant challenges, particularly with the potential for a change in administration. The decision has left many mixed-status families in limbo, as they now face the prospect of lengthy separations or continued undocumented status.

Critics of the program, including President-elect Donald Trump, have pledged to implement stricter immigration policies if returned to office. This includes promises of large-scale deportation programs and a crackdown on illegal immigration. The ruling has reignited debates about immigration reform and the extent of executive authority in shaping immigration policy.