Trump administration revoked 85,000 visas since January: Report
What's the story
The Trump administration has revoked a staggering 85,000 visas across all categories since January, a report by CNN stated. This number is more than double the amount of visa revocations in the previous year. A State Department official confirmed that over 8,000 student visas were among those revoked, according to the report. The reasons for these revocations include offenses such as driving under the influence, assaults, and thefts, which accounted for nearly half of the total revocations.
Controversial actions
Visa revocations raise First Amendment concerns
While the department official stated that the actions were taken to protect American communities, besides enforcing public-safety standards, the high number of visa revocations has raised First Amendment concerns. The Trump administration has specifically targeted international students protesting the Gaza war, accusing them of antisemitism and supporting terrorism. In October, the State Department revoked visas for those who were allegedly celebrating Charlie Kirk's murder.
Vetting policy
State Department plans 'continuous vetting' of visa holders
Earlier this year, a State Department official had announced plans for "continuous vetting" of over 55 million foreign nationals with valid US visas. The official said, "The State Department revokes visas any time there are indications of a potential ineligibility." This includes overstays, criminal activity, threats to public safety, or terrorist activities.
Visa scrutiny
Enhanced vetting for H1-B visa applicants
Under President Donald Trump's second term, the State Department has widened the criteria for scrutinizing or denying visas. A recent diplomatic cable revealed that individuals involved in content moderation and fact-checking may be denied H1-B visas under "enhanced vetting," according to Reuters. In June, embassies were instructed to vet student visa applicants for "hostile attitudes towards our citizens, culture, government, institutions, or founding principles."
Deportation campaigns
Department of Homeland Security's aggressive policies
Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security has also been aggressive with detention and deportation campaigns. The administration has effectively frozen refugee resettlement and plans to review all refugees who entered the US under the Biden administration. Earlier this year, travel restrictions were imposed on 19 countries, which may soon expand to between 30 and 32 countries after a recent shooting incident involving an Afghan national in Washington, DC.