Latest news with #Salazar
Newsweek
2 days ago
- Politics
- Newsweek
Can a Lawmaker Be Fully MAGA and Still Push for Immigration Reform?
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. For decades, immigration has been among the thorniest issues in American legislative politics, often falling victim to gridlock and partisan fighting. But Representative Maria Elvira Salazar says the moment to fix the system has finally arrived — and she believes Republicans now have a historic opportunity to lead a new charge on bipartisan immigration reform that American voters have been demanding for decades. "The GOP has a historic opportunity to fix the immigration system after 40 years of it being broken," Salazar, a Cuban-American Republican from Florida, told Newsweek in an exclusive interview. The Dignity Act of 2025, which Salazar introduced alongside Texas Democrat Veronica Escobar, comes as Hispanic voters express growing frustration with the GOP and with President Trump's aggressive immigration enforcement, fueled by anger over mass deportations and workplace raids. A CBS News/YouGov poll this month found Hispanic support for Trump had fallen from nearly 50 percent to about one-third, with 63 percent saying his immigration policies are "too tough" and 64 percent believing Hispanics are unfairly singled out in enforcement efforts. Against that backdrop, Salazar told Newsweek the bill offers a middle ground — aiming to replace fear in immigrant communities with stability while preserving Republicans' long-standing credibility on enforcement. "Since I come from the Hispanic community, and my district understands very well what this topic is about, I found something that is right in the middle, that can satisfy both sides of the aisle — and that's called dignity." Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar (R-Fla.) speaks during a press conference at the U.S. Capitol April 10, 2024. Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar (R-Fla.) speaks during a press conference at the U.S. Capitol April 10, 2024. Francis Chung/POLITICO via AP Images No More 'Catch and Release' For years, Republicans have decried what they saw as loopholes in and abuses of the asylum system, as well as inconsistent enforcement. Salazar argued that addressing those issues head-on is essential to fixing the broader immigration picture. "The legal immigration system needs to address 'catch and release' and the asylum system, which has been gamed for decades because there are no other routes to come to this country," she told Newsweek. "If we fix that — stop catch and release, stop gaming the asylum system, and give dignity to those already here, who work and have no criminal record — then we can fix all sides at the same time." The bill's provisions are also crafted with the economy in mind. Agriculture, hospitality, and construction — three sectors heavily reliant on immigrant labor — have reported labor shortages and disruptions as immigration enforcement escalates. Salazar said those industries cannot function without undocumented workers who have been living in the United States for years. The badge of a Customs and Border Protection agent is seen as they patrol the halls of immigration court at the Jacob K. Javitz Federal Building on June 18, 2025 in New York City. The badge of a Customs and Border Protection agent is seen as they patrol the halls of immigration court at the Jacob K. Javitz Federal Building on June 18, 2025 in New York City. Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images "What's possible right now is letting these people go home at night without fear, not being deported, and continuing to contribute to the economy," she said. The Dignity Act offers a compromise: enhanced border security and mandatory E-Verify paired with a seven-year renewable legal status — but not citizenship — for undocumented immigrants who arrived before 2021, provided they pay restitution and comply with DHS monitoring. However, critics of the bill, particularly immigrant advocacy groups and some Democrats, have argued that by denying citizenship, it effectively consigns millions of people to permanent second-class status. Salazar rejected that characterization. "If you talk to millions of those facing deportation after years here, they would say: 'Of course, give me a solution.'" The bill also overhauls the byzantine asylum process, strengthens ports of entry and provides protections for Dreamers while explicitly excluding federal benefits for participants. Hard to Convince But inside her own party, Salazar faces strong resistance. Hardliners like Stephen Miller, White House Deputy Chief of Staff and architect of some of the administration's toughest immigration policies, continue to advocate for mass deportations and minimal concessions. Salazar acknowledged that some Republicans view any legal status for those already in the country illegally as unacceptable, but she said the political and economic costs of inaction are growing. "Everything in life is timing," she told Newsweek. "Now that the southern border has been secured and the disaster of the last administration has been stopped — now is the time to look inward and fix other problems within immigration." White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller speaks to press outside of the White House on April 14, 2025 in Washington, DC. He has suggested that Americans are owed reparations for the impacts of... White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller speaks to press outside of the White House on April 14, 2025 in Washington, DC. He has suggested that Americans are owed reparations for the impacts of mass migration. MoreYet, as in previous attempts at reform, critics have likened the plan to Ronald Reagan's 1986 immigration law, which granted amnesty to millions. Salazar said her bill does not amount to amnesty by another name. "Opposition is welcomed — this is democracy. We're not in a dictatorship. But at the end of the day, Republicans need to find a solution to a problem that's been here for 40 years," she said. "The reality is that these workers are needed, industries must function, and Americans need food, construction, and hospitality to continue as they are now." At the center of her pitch is an appeal to the president himself. Despite his administration's deportations and aggressive rhetoric on immigrants, Salazar believes that Trump would be open to back her plan. "The president is an intelligent man. He's a construction guy with golf courses. He will sign 'Dignity' and be for immigration what Lincoln was for slavery and Reagan was for communism." The president has not commented on the Dignity Act, while White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt was noncommittal when asked if Trump would veto it. "From my understanding, the White House nor the president has actually read through this legislation," Leavitt said, adding that Trump was busy with the flurry of legislation moving through Congress before the summer recess, such as the GENIUS Act and the rescissions package. "But the president has made it very clear he will not support amnesty for illegal aliens in any way," she added. Full Interview with Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar Q: Why are you leading on this bill? What personally or politically motivated you to champion the Dignity Act? Because it's the right thing to do for the economy of this country. The GOP has a historic opportunity to fix the immigration system after 40 years of it being broken. Since I come from the Hispanic community, and my district understands very well what this topic is about, I found something that is right in the middle, that can satisfy both sides of the aisle — and that's called dignity. Q: What do you think needs fixing right now in the legal immigration system beyond addressing undocumented immigrants? What do you see as the biggest problems that need reform? The legal immigration system needs to address "catch and release" and the asylum system, which has been gamed for decades because there are no other routes to come to this country. If we fix that — stop catch and release, stop gaming the asylum system, and give dignity to those already here, who work and have no criminal record — then we can fix all sides at the same time. And we've also allocated funds to secure the border permanently. If resources are placed correctly, we won't have mass illegal immigration anymore. Q: Why is bipartisan support necessary on immigration? What lessons have you learned from past failed efforts? Every important law — especially something so socially ingrained as immigration — needs Democrats on board. I believe the Democratic Party understands it's time to fix the problem. That's why we have a very important co-sponsor, Veronica Escobar, who joined us on the Dignity Act. It's a significant bipartisan legislative push. Q: How do you convince your fellow Republicans to back this? Immigration is a big topic on President Trump's agenda, and past immigration bills haven't moved forward. What's your strategy? Everything in life is timing. Now that the southern border has been secured and the disaster of the last administration has been stopped — now is the time to look inward and fix other problems within immigration. Border security and immigration are two different issues. Since the border has been sealed and illegal crossings are at record lows, now we can focus on immigration. Q: Why focus on worker protections rather than broader reform? Your bill highlights economic stability and protecting industries like agriculture. Why take this narrower focus instead of pushing for comprehensive reform Because it's the art of the possible. America's business is business. We want to create economic security and not disrupt the food chain, construction, or hospitality — industries that touch the lives of millions of Americans. If we were to deport or disrupt those three industries, the average American would feel it. The economy needs these workers who are already here. We might as well bring them out of the shadows, give them dignity, have them pay a fine and 1% of their salary every year. Everyone benefits. Q: There's also a significant opposition within the Republican Party and American society to these kinds of policies. What kind of opposition have you faced, and how do you convince people this isn't like the amnesty under Ronald Reagan in 1986? Opposition is welcomed — this is democracy. We're not in a dictatorship. But at the end of the day, Republicans need to find a solution to a problem that's been here for 40 years. It's our job as legislators. Opposition may exist, but the reality is that these workers are needed, industries must function, and Americans need food, construction, and hospitality to continue as they are now. Q: Some critics say the Dignity Act creates a permanent underclass — a group of workers without full rights of citizenship. How do you respond to those concerns? It's the art of the possible. What's possible right now is letting these people go home at night without fear, not being deported, and continuing to contribute to the economy. If you talk to millions of those facing deportation after years here, they would say: "Of course, give me dignity." Q: Recent polls show Hispanic support for President Trump has declined somewhat due to immigration procedures in the past months. From your perspective, what do you think about those efforts, and what could the administration do better? Sign the Dignity Act. The president is an intelligent man. He's a construction guy with golf courses. He will sign Dignity and be for immigration what Lincoln was for slavery and Reagan was for communism. Q: And if this fails, what's next for you? Will you keep pushing? I'm not going to fail. Just watch.
Newsweek
3 days ago
- Business
- Newsweek
Supreme Court Urged by NBA To Clarify 37-Year-Old Law
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. The National Basketball Association (NBA), along with support from the National Football League (NFL), is urging the United States Supreme Court to provide a definitive interpretation of the Video Privacy Protection Act (VPPA), a law enacted in the 1980s to protect consumer video rental and viewing records. Why It Matters As digital content and streaming services have redefined the modern viewing landscape, federal courts are divided on whether this decades-old law should apply to those accessing free online content. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 2nd and 7th Circuits have ruled that the law does apply to consumers of a videotape service provider's non-audiovisual goods and services, while the U.S. 6th Circuit Court of Appeals rejected this interpretation. "Only this Court can resolve the split," Shay Dvoretzky and Raza Rasheed, attorneys for the NBA, wrote in a brief filed Wednesday. Newsweek has reached out to the NBA for comment. A general overall exterior view of the Supreme Court, on January 1, 2023, in Washington. A general overall exterior view of the Supreme Court, on January 1, 2023, in Washington. Aaron M. Sprecher via AP What To Know The case centers on Michael Salazar, who in 2022 filed suit against the NBA after subscribing to its free online newsletter and watching complimentary videos on while logged into Facebook. Salazar alleges his video viewing history was shared with Meta, Facebook's parent company, without his consent, via tracking software incorporated on the NBA's website. The NBA argues that Salazar is not protected under the VPPA because he subscribed to the NBA's free email newsletter, not its audiovisual content. In October 2024, the 2nd Circuit ruled that Salazar was a "consumer" under the VPPA because he had exchanged personal information for access to NBA content. The 7th Circuit agreed with the 2nd Circuit's decision, but the 6th Circuit rejected those decisions, holding that the VPPA's protections only to those who subscribe to videocassette tapes or similar audiovisual materials. "This case is an excellent vehicle for addressing both the VPPA split and whether Salazar had standing to begin with," attorneys for the NBA wrote in a brief. Salazar's attorney, Joshua I. Hammack, argues that the Court should not consider the case because a final judgment has not been reached, and two amended complaints have been filed since the NBA petitioned the Court for certiorari. "This case is far from an 'ideal' or 'perfect vehicle,'" Hammack wrote in a brief. Newsweek has also reached out to Hammack for comment. In May, the NFL filed a brief supporting the NBA's petition and emphasizing the potential industrywide repercussions. The NFL argued that Supreme Court intervention is necessary to address a rise in class action lawsuits against content providers under the VPPA. "Absent the Court's intervention, sports leagues and other online content providers will continue to face a slew of class actions under the VPPA," attorneys for the NFL wrote in the brief. What is the VPPA? The VPPA was passed by Congress in 1988 and signed into law by President Ronald Reagan. The law is also referred to as the "Bork bill" because it was passed after Robert Bork's video rental history became public during his Supreme Court nomination. The law states that a "videotape service provider" who knowingly discloses information about any of its consumers is liable to provide relief. What People Are Saying Shay Dvoretzky and Raza Rasheed, attorneys for the NBA, in a brief filed Wednesday: "The parties agree that the petition presents an important, certworthy VPPA question. This case is an excellent vehicle to resolve that question and whether Salazar has Article III standing. The Second Circuit's decision on both questions was wrong, and it threatens widespread damage to the modern internet economy. The Court should intervene." Joshua I. Hammack, attorney for Michael Salazar, in a brief: "Nothing about 'subscribing' is unique to audiovisual goods or services. There is simply no basis to rewrite the VPPA's definition of 'consumer' to impose a limitation that appears nowhere in the text." What Happens Next The NBA has filed a petition for a writ of certiorari to the Supreme Court. The Court has yet to decide whether it will hear the case. Do you have a story that Newsweek should be covering? Do you have any questions about this story? Contact LiveNews@
Politico
3 days ago
- Politics
- Politico
New Salazar challenger talks public safety, immigration
IN MEMORIAM: State Rep. JOE CASELLO (D-Boynton Beach), an Air Force veteran, a firefighter for more than three decades and a former Boynton Beach city commissioner, died July 18. He was 73 and had planned to run for Palm Beach County Commissioner in 2026. His family is holding a private ceremony at their home in Massachusetts and a public memorial service will be announced in the coming weeks, Florida House Democrats said. Good morning and welcome to Monday. Just a few days ago, attorney ROBIN PEGUERO became the latest Democrat to line up a challenge to GOP Rep. MARÍA ELVIRA SALAZAR. Florida's diverse 27th Congressional District has become a key flashpoint in the immigration debate ahead of the 2026 midterms. Located in South Florida and a roughly 50-mile drive from 'Alligator Alcatraz,' it runs from Cutler Bay through Coral Gables and Little Havana, then up to portions of downtown Miami. The district went heavily Republican in 2024. President DONALD TRUMP won it by 15 points, while Salazar was reelected by nearly 21 points despite being a key campaign target for Democrats. Yet the seat looks attractive to Democrats anew; it's one of just three in Florida the Democratic House's campaign arm has targeted to flip in the 2026 cycle. Other Democrats running include former Key Biscayne Mayor MIKE DAVEY, accountant ALEXANDER FORNINO and entrepreneur RICHARD LAMONDIN. Peguero is a first-time candidate. His father is Dominican and his mother is Ecuadorian. He grew up in Hialeah, then went to Harvard for both undergraduate studies and law school. And like Salazar — who is of Cuban descent and was a longtime Spanish language TV journalist — Peguero, 39, is fully bilingual. He worked as a Hill staffer and as an attorney for the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol riot. He now teaches criminal law at St. Thomas University Law School in Miami Gardens. 'I've actually been a staffer longer than the congresswoman has worked in Congress,' he told Playbook in an interview, 'so I know how to get things done.' Trump's immigration crackdown is clearly an issue affecting the Hispanic-majority district Salazar represents: The congresswoman was part of the group that toured 'Alligator Alcatraz' on July 12, according to others who attended. She also introduced bipartisan legislation last week to allow immigrants who've lived in the US for at least five years to be able to apply for work authorization for seven years, but not achieve citizenship. Through a statement provided by her campaign, Salazar said 'no one pressures me' regarding her position on immigration, adding that she answered to her constituents, God and her conscience. The legislation she introduced last week, she said, would 'seal the border, protect our economy and give dignity to those who've earned it. No amnesty. No handouts.' 'Fixing immigration is a pocketbook issue,' she continued. 'Our workers, our businesses and our communities are demanding real solutions, not political games.' Peguero says Salazar should be confronting Trump over instances in which people without criminal records have been swept up in the immigration crackdown. But he also raised his 'law and order' background that includes parents who served in the Army and the years he spent in Miami working as a homicide prosecutor. He argues the US borders need to be secured and that violent criminals need to serve their sentences then be deported. Public safety, he stressed, is one of those 'back to basics' issues for voters. 'I put violent criminals behind bars,' he said. 'These are folks terrorizing our neighborhoods, and they don't deserve the privilege of being in this country.' Peguero is also emphasizing his stance as a capitalist, as Republicans have continued to cast Democrats as 'socialists' each election cycle. 'Communism has been horrific. It has led to the death and the struggles, starvation, impoverishment for so many people throughout our history, it is absolutely not the answer — neither communism nor socialism,' he said. 'And so I just got to talk about me, how I was raised, and where I come from.' Have a tip, story, suggestion, birthday, anniversary, new job, or any other nugget that Playbook should look at? Get in touch at: kleonard@ and @leonardkl. ... DATELINE TALLAHASSEE ... WHAT TO WATCH — BLAISE INGOGLIA will be formally sworn-in as Florida's next chief financial officer at a noon ceremony being held in the Cabinet room of the Florida Capitol. Gov. RON DESANTIS announced last week that he was tapping the Republican legislator and longtime ally to take the place of JIMMY PATRONIS, who stepped down from the post to run for Congress. DeSantis and first lady CASEY DESANTIS are expected to be on hand for the swearing-in ceremony, which will be followed by a private reception at the Governor's Club. Florida has been without a full-time CFO since April. The chief financial officer is a member of the Florida Cabinet and plays a key role in regulation of Florida's banking and insurance industries. It also comes with an annual salary of nearly $140,000. — Gary Fineout ALSO TODAY — US District Judge KATHLEEN WILLIAMS has called a 1 p.m. status conference over the lawsuit involving environmental concerns at 'Alligator Alcatraz.' — 'The tab for Florida's immigrant prison in the Everglades is $250 million — and counting,' by Jason Garcia of Seeking Rents. DESANTIS ON EPSTEIN FILES — The governor told Fox News Channel's BRIAN KILMEADE on Sunday that the Trump administration should release the files in the case because he believes JEFFREY EPSTEIN and GHISLAINE MAXWELL didn't act alone, and that the public wants to see others brought to justice, reports Florida Politics A.G. Gancarksi. DESANTIS V. NEWSOM FODDER — California appears to have supplanted Florida as the state with the weakest property insurance market, with newly released data showing unprecedented numbers of Californians cannot find coverage. California's property insurance crisis has grown increasingly dire in recent months while Florida has staged a stunning turnaround. In Florida, the insurance market is starting to benefit from laws enacted in 2022 after claims from major storms put roughly a dozen local insurance companies out of business, experts said. — POLITICO's E&E News' Thomas Frank AHEAD OF THE WEEKEND — DeSantis announced Friday that federal officials are allowing the state to take over work on some components of an Everglades reservoir construction to speed up its completion by five years. DeSantis said the agreement with the Department of the Army signed Friday would accelerate Everglades restoration and move up the EAA reservoir completion date from 2034 to 2029. 'This is a really, really big deal,' DeSantis said, adding, 'We have a great partner with the Trump administration and the Department of the Army.' — Bruce Ritchie FLORIDA'S 10TH EXECUTION — DeSantis on Friday signed a death warrant for convicted murderer KAYLE BARRINGTON BATES, who's set to become the 10th person to die by capital punishment in Florida this year, reports Jim Saunders of News Service of Florida. Bates is convicted of abducting and killing JANET WHITE in 1982. VAN LENT IMPRISONED — 'A longtime Everglades scientist was handcuffed in a Miami courtroom and taken to jail [last week] to begin serving a 10-day jail sentence in a case that divided the normally tightknit Florida environmental community,' reports Jenny Staletovich of WLRN. 'The sentence caps a three-year battle between hydrologist Tom Van Lent and his former bosses at the Everglades Foundation, who accused him of stealing trade secrets when he quit in 2022.' PENINSULA AND BEYOND — ''The nightmare is over': Venezuelans celebrate release of men held in El Salvador,' by Verónica Egui Brito of the Miami Herald. — 'West Palm Beach removing LGBTQ+ rainbow crosswalk under orders from Trump, DeSantis administrations,' by Anthony Man of the South Florida Sun Sentinel. CAMPAIGN MODE ABORTION RIGHTS FLASHPOINT — Democratic women who support abortion rights launched a defense over the weekend of Democratic gubernatorial candidate DAVID JOLLY after ANNA HOCHKAMMER, the executive director of Florida Women's Freedom Coalition, questioned his commitment and record on the issue in a Miami Herald op-ed. The women — including Fair Districts Florida leader ELLEN FREIDIN, former federal prosecutor JANE MOSCOWITZ, former Rep. and HHS Secretary DONNA SHALALA and retired President and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida BARBARA ZDRAVECKY — signed onto a letter published in the Miami Herald on Sunday. They wrote: 'David Jolly told us: 'I voted for Amendment 4. As governor, I would work to enact Amendment 4 into law. I support Roe. I am pro-choice. And as your governor I would veto any legislation that would restrict reproductive healthcare in the state of Florida.'' WHAT DESANTIS IS READING — Former Gov. ANDREW CUOMO joked to business leaders at a Hamptons breakfast that he'll move to Florida if he loses the New York City mayor's race to ZOHRAN MAMDANI. The news caught the attention of DeSantis, who warned on X, 'Don't New York our Florida!' Cuomo is running in the mayoral race as an independent, after losing the Democratic nomination to Mamdani on July 1. TRUMPLANDIA AND THE SWAMP RESCHEDULED — Agriculture Secretary BROOKE ROLLINS is visiting a citrus grove in Felda and holding a press conference at 12:15 p.m. PAM-DEMONIUM — 'Trump has grown weary of defending Attorney General Pam Bondi's handling of the Justice Department's Jeffery Epstein files and wants her to take responsibility for cleaning up the mess, according to four people familiar with White House deliberations,' report Garrett Haake, Matt Dixon, Kelly O'Donnell, Peter Nicholas and Jonathan Allen of NBC News. Key quote: 'I do think that he likes and respects Pam, but she has without question caused some headaches for them,' said one unnamed source. 'At the end of the day, at this point she is almost assuredly is just doing what she is told, so I believe she is very safe, but has had missteps.' DATELINE D.C. TPS EXTENDED FOR HAITIANS — 'Tens of thousands of Haitians living and working in the United States with temporary protections from deportation will now be allowed to remain until at least February 2026 with employment authorization, according to the Department of Homeland Security website,' reports Jacqueline Charles of the Miami Herald. 'The restoration of Haiti's Temporary Protected Status, or TPS, designation comes after a New York federal judge earlier this month blocked the Trump administration's efforts to shave six months off of the protections, which are usually for 18 months.' Rep. SHEILA CHERFILUS-MCCORMICK, the first Haitian-American Democrat in Congress, weighed in: 'Let's be clear: this is the enforcement of the law. Our communities should not have to rely on court orders to be treated with dignity. A stronger path forward begins at home, with permanent protections and immigration reform that centers humanity, not politics.' MORE DETENTION CENTERS LIKE ALLIGATOR ALCATRAZ FORMING — ICE is pushing forward with creating more temporary tent detention centers across the US, per internal documents viewed by Michelle Hackman and Elizabeth Findell of The Wall Street Journal. The agency is using a new influx in cash that it got from Trump's 'Big Beautiful Bill' to reach 100,000 beds by the end of the year, an increase from the 40,000 that existed when Trump took office. — 'Clearwater man convicted of misdemeanor battery against Rep. Luna staffer,' reports Katelyn Ferral of the Tampa Bay Times. ODDS, ENDS AND FLORIDA MEN — 'Developer Donald Soffer, who founded Aventura, dies at 92,' reports The Real Deal. WELCOME TO THE WORLD — Republican Party of Florida chair EVAN POWER and MELISSA POWER welcomed baby EVELYN ANN POWER over the weekend. BIRTHDAY: State Sen. Gayle Harrell.
Newsweek
7 days ago
- Politics
- Newsweek
Steve Bannon Rebukes 'Traitorous' Republicans
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Right-wing podcaster Steve Bannon issued a sharp rebuke Thursday against Republican lawmakers backing the Dignity Act, an updated bill proposing a pathway to citizenship for some undocumented immigrants. "Message to [Republican Representative Maria Elvira] Salazar and other traitorous Republicans: MASS DEPORTATIONS NOW; AMNESTY NEVER," Bannon, who served as the CEO of Trump's 2016 campaign and remains a key figure within the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement, wrote on Gettr on Thursday morning. Bannon told Newsweek via phone on Thursday that the legislation has "zero chance" of going anywhere, adding that Salazar has "been pushing amnesty since she got to Congress." Why It Matters Nine Republican House lawmakers on Tuesday signed on to the reintroduction of an immigration-related bill called the Dignity Act that legislative sponsors say provides an "updated compromise" addressing legal status and protections for undocumented immigrants, border security, asylum reform, and visa reform. What to Know The Dignity Act, introduced in the House of Representatives on Tuesday, has drawn both bipartisan support and fierce criticism from the Republican Party's hardline wing. The proposed legislation, co-led by Salazar of Florida and Democrat Veronica Escobar of Texas, would grant legal status and protections to undocumented immigrants, overhaul the asylum process, and create a regulated pathway to citizenship for Dreamers and others residing in the U.S. without legal authorization. Backers have called it "the most impactful immigration reform in a generation." Salazar told reporters on Wednesday in Washington that the bill does not provide amnesty, nor does it provide a pathway to citizenship for illegal immigrants. Chief Strategist to the President Steve Bannon speaks during the Semafor World Economy Summit 2025 at Conrad Washington on April 23, 2025 in Washington, DC. Chief Strategist to the President Steve Bannon speaks during the Semafor World Economy Summit 2025 at Conrad Washington on April 23, 2025 in Washington, told Newsweek via phone on Thursday that the legislation has "zero chance" of going anywhere, adding that Salazar has "been pushing amnesty since she got to Congress." "She calls it a different thing, always has a different spin on amnesty," Bannon said. "Right now, people, the only thing they're interested in is mass deportations. They wanna see the deportations kick up." Support for the bill among Republicans has included Representatives Mario Rafael Diaz-Balart (Florida), Brian Fitzpatrick (Pennsylvania), Mike Lawler (New York), Dan Newhouse (Washington), David Valadao (California), Mike Kelly (Pennsylvania), Gabe Evans (Colorado), Marlin Stutzman (Indiana), Don Bacon (Nebraska), and Young Kim (California). The measure is also supported by 11 Democrats. Part of the legislation included allowing undocumented immigrants who have been in the U.S. since prior to 2021 to apply for up to seven years of legal status with work authorization, provided that they pay restitution and check in regularly with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). "Don't get me wrong, the reason that we have the situation that we have with 10 or 20 million coming in during [President Joe] Biden's because of RINO [Republicans In Name Only] Republicans that have wanted and teased amnesty to attract people. The whole DACA [Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals] fight and everything about amnesty attracts more people coming here 'cause they figure if they come here, they're eventually going to get a path to citizenship." This issue is "exactly" what has galvanized a stronger conservative of minorities, including Hispanics and African Americans, to vote more heavily for Trump in 2024, Bannon added. "[They are] finally coming our way and voting for us exactly on this issue, that there's not going to be any path to citizenship for anyone coming here illegally," he said. "People know that's what's driving down wages and making the schools intolerable, and destroying health care and deferring healthcare. It's a political winner. "But Salazar and people like her, her co-sponsors are always going to continue to bring her fantasy, and that just attracts more people to the United States." The 22-page bill summary presents myriad options for immigration reform, including the following major revisions: Granting legal status and protections to undocumented immigrants already living in the U.S. Reforming the asylum screening process to provide an opportunity for review and access to counsel. Creating new regional processing centers so migrants do not have to make the "perilous journey" to the U.S.-Mexico border to seek asylum. Investing in border security and modernizing land ports of entry. Mandating accountability for ICE. Providing a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers. The bill also alludes to the "recent riots in Los Angeles," a line that has drawn consternation across conservative circles. Bannon's criticism reflects a wider rift within the party over immigration policy. The Dignity Act stands in contrast to President Donald Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB)," which recently increased funding for enforcement and eliminated bond hearings for undocumented immigrants facing deportation. That legislation does not include a pathway to legal status or citizenship, focusing instead on deportation and stricter asylum rules. With the Dignity Act facing opposition from some within the party and advocacy from others citing economic needs and border reforms, intraparty divisions remain front and center as the debate over immigration continues. What People Are Saying Representative Maria Elvira Salazar of Florida on NBC's Meet the Press on Wednesday: "The border is secured, the BBB assures $150 billion for border security on the southern border. Now is the time to have a national conversation as to what we're going to do with those people who have been here over five years. They are needed in the economy and don't have a criminal record. Dignity is the best solution; it's not a path to citizenship, it's not amnesty. It lets them stay, work and pay taxes." Representative Veronica Escobar, in a statement earlier this week: "I have seen firsthand the devastating consequences of our broken immigration system, and as a member of Congress, I take seriously my obligation to propose a solution. Realistic, common-sense compromise is achievable, and is especially important given the urgency of this moment. I consider the Dignity Act of 2025 a critical first step to overhauling this broken system." Immigration attorney Rosanna Berardi told Newsweek on Tuesday: "Without congressional action to roll back many of the core immigration elements of H.R. 1—especially the funding and restrictions around detention, deportations, and parole—there's really no practical space for the Dignity Act's approach," Berardi said. "However, I do think this framework could help create bipartisan conversations focused on creating easier work-visa access and temporary status for migrant workers in industries like agriculture, hospitality, health care and manufacturing. Azoria CEO James Fishback on X: "No, Maria—the LA riots are a reason to *triple down* on deportations. MAGA is not gonna let Country Club Republicans give amnesty to illegals because they don't want to pay Americans a real wage to trim the Bermuda on hole nine. Also, it's disgraceful to call it the 'Dignity Act' when it disgraces the dignity of every American who pays taxes and follows the law—only to watch their job handed to one of Salazar's new 'constituents.'" What Happens Next Trump's bill, signed into law last weekend, drastically increases funding for immigration enforcement efforts, likely leading to more detentions and deportations.
Straits Times
16-07-2025
- Business
- Straits Times
Asia-Pacific will need over 230k new pilots, 250k aircraft maintenance technicians by 2042: ICAO chief
Find out what's new on ST website and app. ICAO secretary-general Juan Carlos Salazar (left) and Senior Minister of State for Transport Sun Xueling at the inaugural ICAO Asia-Pacific regional training symposium on July 16. SINGAPORE – The Asia-Pacific region will require more than 230,000 new pilots and over 250,000 aircraft maintenance technicians by 2042, in order to fuel the growth of the aviation industry in this part of the world, secretary-general of International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Juan Carlos Salazar said on July 16. The Asia-Pacific region requires a standardised training ecosystem that is tech-driven and can be scaled up that is able to rapidly produce pilots, technicians and other types of aviation professions, said Mr Salazar. He pointed out that the year 2042 roughly marks the time today's toddlers enter university. Speaking to over 400 industry partners and training experts at the inaugural ICAO Asia-Pacific regional training symposium on July 16, Mr Salazar underscored the importance of jumpstarting training to produce the required talent in the reigon. At the same time, he outlined the 'severe shortage' of training facilities in the region, including pilot training schools, maintenance training centres and air traffic control academies. 'We need to build regional training hubs, particularly in Southeast Asia and South Asia, to reduce the dependence on schools outside the region,' added Mr Salazar. His comments come after Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Siow said on July 14 that Singapore intends to roll out new training programmes to train more aviation officials from around the world. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore July BTO launch to have over 4,600 balance flats, 2 BTO projects with under than 3-year wait Singapore Acute psychiatry services to be expanded across all healthcare clusters: MOH Singapore 'Kpods broke our marriage, shattered our children': Woman on husband's vape addiction Business US tariffs may last well after Trump; crucial for countries to deepen trade ties: SM Lee Multimedia Telling the Singapore story for 180 years Asia Indonesia police detain 12 suspects over baby trafficking ring linked to Singapore Life Walking for exercise? Here are tips on how to do it properly Singapore 'Nobody deserves to be alone': Why Mummy and Acha have fostered over 20 children in the past 22 years At the training symposium, Senior Minister of State for Transport Sun Xueling also announced the launch of the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS)'s new training programme the Asia Pacific Training Awards. There will be 120 of these awards set aside for government officials from civil aviation authorities of Asia-Pacific states to train at the Singapore Aviation Academy. The academy, CAAS's training arm, is currently undergoing a $120 million refresh that is slated to be completed by 2026. Ms Sun noted that to date, more than 9,500 fellowships and scholarships have been awarded to industry professionals worldwide through courses conducted by the academy. She added that Singapore and ICAO had launched the first-ever Asia-Pacific Youth for Aviation Programme on July 14, which brought 36 youth aged 19 to 28 from 19 Asia-Pacific states together to visit aviation sites and learn about emerging industry developments. CAAS noted that these youth will also take part in a youth dialogue session with Mr Salazar and director-general of CAAS Han Kok Juan. 'The programme offers a unique platform for young enthusiasts to build connections and experience the interconnected nature of the aviation ecosystem,' said Ms Sun. Mr Dylan Sim, one of the two youth participants from Singapore, told The Straits Times that he was looking forward to familiarising himself with the aviation industry, in addition to receiving feedback from Mr Salazar and Mr Han on his group's presentation on workforce developments in the Asia-Pacific. 'Interacting with the other youth participants from other countries opens up all our minds to the world of aviation,' said the 23-year-old third-year university student who specialises in aerospace engineering as part of his mechanical engineering course.
