Trump’s Mixed Signals on DACA Leave Dreamers Seeking Clarity
As anticipation builds for President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration, discussions around mass deportations have been prevalent. Yet, in a recent interview with “Meet the Press,” Trump expressed a desire to assist DACA recipients in remaining in the U.S.
During his initial interview following the election, Trump reiterated his commitment to deporting individuals with criminal records. However, he also mentioned a willingness to collaborate with Democrats to legislate protections for those under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, often referred to as Dreamers. This sentiment evoked a sense of déjà vu for Phoenix resident and DACA recipient, Jose Patiño, reminiscent of promises made in 2017.
“He said that Dreamers have nothing to worry about, that he supported DACA recipients, then rescinded the DACA program, then said that he had a deal with the Democrats and Republicans, and then all that fell through,” Patiño remarked. “It’s hard to trust that, because his actions have reflected that he’s not really serious about passing bipartisan legislation that would give a pathway to citizenship to Dreamers or DACA recipients.”
Despite his skepticism, Patiño remains hopeful for meaningful change, not only for himself but for other undocumented individuals. The DACA initiative, established during the Obama administration, offers temporary relief to undocumented individuals brought to the U.S. as children but does not provide a pathway to citizenship. Although Trump’s attempt to terminate the program was halted by the Supreme Court in 2020, a lawsuit from Texas continues to block new applicants.
Bruna Sollod, Senior Political Director at United We Dream, stated in an email following Trump’s interview, “As we speak, our communities await a critical decision from the U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals that could very well end DACA. This lawsuit was brought on by Trump’s own allies in their relentless pursuit to destroy DACA and target our communities. Trump cannot say he wants DACA recipients to remain in the U.S. while actively trying to dismantle programs that allow people to safely stay in the place they call home.”
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