The Heritage Foundation, one of the most influential conservative think tanks in the United States, has presented a robust plan to reform the country's immigration system, covering both border security and significant changes to legal immigration. The proposal aims to create a "simple, secure and efficient" system, in response to what the organization considers to be an overload faced in recent years, especially during the Biden administration.
In the field of border security, the plan proposes expanding the powers of the Border Patrol, allowing rapid expulsions during national crises, and guaranteeing sufficient resources for the detention of immigrants. In addition, it suggests that illegal immigrants be excluded from benefits such as access to bank accounts and public assistance. Limiting the asylum process, which was recently expanded, is also one of the priorities highlighted.
Other measures include the elimination of the green card lottery, the revocation of visas for immigrants who fail to comply with the terms of entry - such as involvement with terrorist groups - and the exclusivity of programs such as the right to vote and to be counted in the census for American citizens. The proposal also advocates more selective immigration, prioritizing qualified professionals who contribute to strategic areas such as business and technology.
With the possible return of Donald Trump to the presidency in 2025, the Heritage Foundation is reinforcing its "America First" agenda, highlighting the need to simplify the legal immigration process, reduce illegal immigration and strengthen national security. Although aligned with this vision, the proposal also raises concerns about the impact on immigrant communities, potential social exclusion and inequality.
