Kelly’s Conflict-Ridden White House Stint
In 2017, John Kelly, a retired Marine Corps general, was selected as the 5th United States Secretary of Homeland Security. During his 6-month tenure, Kelly became known as President Trump’s most notorious yes-man: he oversaw the travel ban that targeted Muslim countries; he promoted a reduction in refugee admissions; he targeted immigrants for deportation; and he even supported the controversial Family Separation Policy. Once Reince Priebus, a long-time Trump-detractor, resigned as White House Chief of Staff, President Trump immediately appointed Kelly to be his replacement.
John Kelly Resigns
While many hoped that Kelly would bring moderation and discipline to the White House, it quickly became clear that his uncompromising opinions on immigration and national security were in sync with his controversial boss. However, by 2018, Kelly and Trump had a quiet falling out over the President’s egregious border wall policies, prompting Kelly to turn in his resignation.
Kelly on Immigration & The Border Wall
Donald Trump’s White House has been characterized by disputes, abuse, and an alarmingly high turnover rate. In fact, as of March 2019, the turnover rate for senior-level members of the executive office reigns as 65%. Unfortunately, no one escapes the Trump Administration without being repeatedly lambasted in speeches and across the President’s Twitter account.
Like many other disenchanted employees, Kelly hasn’t kept quiet about the President’s most controversial policies – and least redeeming qualities. On March 6, 2019, Kelly participated in a Q&A with Peter Fever, a Duke Professor of Political Science and Public Policy, at Duke University. Kelly told his enraptured audience that “There's no way, in my view as a (Department of Homeland Security) secretary -- and I said this in all of my hearings -- we don't need a wall from sea to shining sea” and that the U.S.-Mexico border would be a “waste of money.” He also openly rebuked Trump’s disparaging rhetoric about undocumented immigrants, asserting, “They’re overwhelmingly not criminals. They’re people coming up here for economic purposes. I don’t blame them for that.”
Protect Your Rights by Learning More About Your Legal Options
President Trump’s anti-immigration crusade continues to gain ground as both his detractors and moderate allies flee from positions in his administration. As the Immigration and Customs Enforcement deportation office gains more power and liberties, it’s important to have a comprehensive understanding of your legal rights. If you have questions regarding your immigration status or fear deportation proceedings, contact the Coral Springs immigration attorneys at Guerra Sáenz, PL today. Our legal team can review your case, examine your legal options, and develop a case strategy that helps you achieve your American Dream.
Call Guerra Sáenz, PL today at (888) 936-3228 schedule a consultation.