The Biden-Harris administration’s recent proposal to permit illegal immigrants access to taxpayer-funded college preparatory programs has sparked significant backlash from GOP senators. The new rule from the Department of Education would allow individuals eligible under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program to benefit from federal TRIO programs, which were initially created to support low-income individuals, first-generation college students, and those with disabilities.
Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) was among the vocal critics, asserting that the proposed rule prioritizes illegal immigrants over American citizens. “This administration’s proposal is an insult to hardworking American families who rely on these programs to ensure their children have a shot at higher education,” Cruz said. He emphasized that resources should be reserved for American students who are struggling with rising education costs.
Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR) also voiced his opposition, describing the proposal as another example of the administration’s misplaced priorities. “We should be focusing on making college more affordable for American students, not stretching our resources thin to accommodate illegal immigrants,” Cotton stated. He called for legislative measures to block the implementation of this rule, stressing the importance of preserving educational opportunities for U.S. citizens.
The introduction of this rule follows a period of unprecedented illegal immigration under the Biden-Harris administration, with over 10 million people crossing the border illegally since January 2021. This surge has intensified the debate over immigration policy and national security, with many Americans expressing a desire for stricter immigration controls and increased deportations as the November election approaches.
