Under President Donald Trump, the administration has rescinded parole for 6,300 foreign nationals who were either on the FBI’s Terrorist Screening Center watchlists or had criminal histories. This announcement was made by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), revealing that these individuals had received taxpayer-funded benefits such as Medicaid and unemployment insurance during their parole.
DOGE pointed out that these foreign nationals, although lacking any other legal status in the United States, were granted work permits and issued Social Security numbers. The organization, led by Elon Musk, specified the benefits received by some:
- Ninety-five individuals, including four on the terrorist watchlist, were Medicaid recipients, costing $276,000.
- Forty-one collected unemployment insurance, receiving $42,000 in benefits.
- Twenty-two obtained federal student loans totaling $280,000.
- Four hundred nine received net tax refunds (only in 2024) amounting to $751,000.
- An undetermined number benefited from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as 'Food Stamps'.
The department indicated that there might be more individuals who were granted parole despite being on the FBI’s Terrorist Screening Center lists or having criminal records.
According to DOGE, during the Biden administration, it was common for the Border Patrol (CBP) to allow foreign nationals without legal status into the United States with minimal background checks, leading to their conditional release. To date, the agency has identified a subgroup of 6,300 parolees in the country since 2023, listed on the terrorist watchlist or with criminal backgrounds.
"These paroles have been revoked effective immediately," the statement emphasized.
President Trump continues to advocate for strong border security, with his administration taking steps to dismantle policies he argues compromise national safety.
Key Questions About Trump’s Parole Revocation
Why did the Trump administration revoke parole for these individuals?
The administration revoked parole to enhance national security, targeting individuals on terrorist watchlists or with criminal records who were receiving taxpayer-funded benefits.
What benefits did these foreign nationals receive while on parole?
They received various benefits including Medicaid, unemployment insurance, federal student loans, tax refunds, and SNAP benefits.
How many individuals were affected by the parole revocation?
The revocation affected 6,300 individuals who were either on watchlists or had criminal backgrounds.