‘We stopped that’: Noem cancels Biden admin’s 11th hour deportation shield for Venezuelan migrants

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem made a bold announcement on Wednesday, revealing that her agency had reversed a decision made during the Biden administration to extend deportation protections for Venezuelan migrants. Noem accused her predecessor, Alejandro Mayorkas, of constraining the Trump administration by extending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuelan nationals by 18 months.

In a statement, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) declared that it has rescinded the January 10 decision made by Mayorkas to extend TPS for Venezuelans. Noem condemned the move, stating that it allowed individuals to remain in the United States and continue to violate the country’s laws for an additional 18 months. The decision to cancel the extension was announced on “Fox and Friends,” where Noem emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law.

TPS provides protection from deportation and grants work permits to nationals from countries deemed unsafe for their return. Mayorkas had also extended TPS for El Salvador, Sudan, and Ukraine for an additional 18 months. The extension for Venezuela applied to approximately 600,000 individuals already covered by TPS, but new applications were not permitted. This extension would have complicated efforts to deport illegal immigrants from Venezuela, particularly members of the violent Tren de Aragua street gang.

Noem highlighted the importance of evaluating individuals in the country, including Venezuelans, and emphasized the need to follow established processes. The decision to cancel the extension came after an ICE operation in New York City overseen by Noem, targeting criminal illegal immigrants. This operation is part of a broader effort to deport illegal immigrants nationwide, empowering ICE officers and enhancing border security measures.

Noem reiterated the public’s desire for safer communities and the need to remove criminal elements from the country. She emphasized the administration’s commitment to protecting America and ensuring the safety of its citizens, echoing President Trump’s promises to address border security and illegal immigration.

In conclusion, Noem’s decision to cancel the extension of deportation protections for Venezuelan migrants reflects a commitment to upholding the rule of law and prioritizing national security. The move aligns with broader efforts to enforce immigration laws, enhance border security, and address criminal elements within the country.