Immigration Policies of the 2024 Presidential Candidates: Harris vs. Trump

Introduction

As a U.S. immigration lawyer, I have witnessed firsthand the complexities and challenges surrounding immigration policy. With the 2024 presidential election fast approaching, it’s crucial for voters to have accurate and comprehensive information about where the candidates stand on this pivotal issue. Unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation circulating, which can make it difficult for individuals to form well-informed opinions.

My goal with this article is to provide a clear and factual comparison of the immigration policies proposed by Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. By understanding the history, facts, and nuances of each candidate’s stance, I hope to empower you to make a decision that aligns with your values and vision for the future of our country.

Border Security

Kamala Harris:

• Harris supports a balanced approach to border security, combining enforcement with humanitarian considerations. She has emphasized the need to address the root causes of migration from Central America and has supported measures to increase border security while also providing pathways for legal immigration.

• The Biden-Harris administration has implemented policies to reduce illegal crossings, such as restricting asylum for migrants who cross the border illegally during high-volume periods.

Donald Trump:

• Trump advocates for stringent border security measures, including the construction of a border wall and the reinstatement of policies like “Remain in Mexico” and Title 42. He has promised to launch a massive deportation effort and use the National Guard to round up migrants.

• Trump has also proposed ending birthright citizenship for children of undocumented immigrants and implementing a travel ban targeting certain countries.

  
  

Refugee Admissions

Kamala Harris:

• Harris has not detailed specific plans for refugee admissions but is expected to continue the Biden administration’s policies, which have significantly increased the refugee cap compared to the Trump administration. The current cap is set at 125,000 per year.

Donald Trump:

• During his presidency, Trump reduced the refugee cap to a historic low of 15,000. He has indicated that he would reinstate similar restrictive policies if elected.

  
  

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)

Kamala Harris:

• Harris supports the DACA program and has called for a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers. The Biden-Harris administration has worked to preserve and fortify DACA despite legal challenges.

Donald Trump:

• Trump attempted to end DACA during his first term and is likely to pursue similar actions if reelected. He has not provided detailed plans on how he would address the status of Dreamers.

  
  

Legal Immigration

Kamala Harris:

• Harris supports expanding lawful immigration pathways, including the use of Temporary Protected Status and parole programs for migrants from countries experiencing crises. She has also backed comprehensive immigration reform that includes a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants.

Donald Trump:

• Trump has proposed a merit-based immigration system and has expressed intentions to restrict certain forms of legal immigration. He has also vowed to end birthright citizenship and tighten access to visa programs.

  
  

Conclusion

The 2024 presidential candidates present voters with a clear choice on immigration policy. Kamala Harris advocates for a balanced approach that combines enforcement with humanitarian considerations and legal pathways. In contrast, Donald Trump promotes stringent measures aimed at reducing both legal and illegal immigration. Voters must consider these stark differences when making their decision at the polls.

Immigration and the macroeconomy after 2024. The Brookings Institution is a nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C. with the mission of conducting in-depth, nonpartisan research to improve policy and governance at local, national, and global levels. For additional information and research, you can refer to the Peterson Institute for International Economics report and the U.S. News decision guide.