On a recent episode of NewsNation’s “Cuomo,” Tom Homan, who is known as the Border Czar, called for urgent changes to immigration laws. He emphasized the need for Congress to step in and raise the threshold for asylum claims made at the U.S. border. Homan believes that these changes could significantly reduce the challenges faced at the border.
Homan expressed concern about the current system, where every new president often reverses the immigration policies of their predecessor through executive orders. He argued that Congress has the power to create lasting solutions to these issues. According to him, three specific laws could alleviate around 85% of the problems at the border.
One of Homan’s key points was about the low threshold for asylum claims. He explained that while the current system is designed to protect those who might face persecution if sent back to their home countries, it is too easy for individuals to claim asylum. Homan noted that cartels are teaching migrants specific phrases to help them pass initial interviews, but the standards become much stricter in court later on.
He also discussed the Flores Settlement Agreement, which currently limits the government’s ability to detain families for more than 20 days. Homan suggested extending this period to 40 days. He argued that if families are genuinely fleeing danger, they should be able to wait in a temporary facility while their cases are reviewed.
Finally, Homan touched on the Trafficking Victims Protection Act, which treats unaccompanied children differently based on their country of origin. Currently, children from Mexico can be quickly returned home if they are not victims of trafficking. However, children from other countries face a lengthy legal process before they can be sent back. Homan believes that all children should be treated equally, regardless of where they come from.
Homan’s comments highlight ongoing debates about immigration policy in the U.S. and the need for legislative action to address these complex issues.