The recent termination of the Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela (CHNV) parole program by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) could affect a major GOP voter base. Cuban American Republicans, who’ve been some the President’s most vocal supporters, could soon find themselves subjected to the very immigration enforcement efforts they championed.
The dismantling of the Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela (CHNV) parole program removes legal status from 500,00 foreign nationals in the U.S. Cubans make up the majority of the four populations covered by the program. The Cuban American community, specifically the one that resides in Miami-Dade County in Florida, amassed significant influence within the Republican Party in the past few decades. In the 2024 presidential election, Trump received seventy percent of the Cuban American vote in Florida.
The decision to end the CHNV program could put Florida republicans in a peculiar position. They may have to choose between supporting a policy that affects their constituency or go against the President they’ve been so vocal in supporting. Critics of the decision were quick to point out the ironic effects it would have on the Cuban American population.
Supporters of the decision argued the termination of the CHNV program mainly targeted Venezuelans immigration. Many republican officials emphasized the possibility of organized criminal organizations taking advantage of programs like CHNV to gain access to the country. Others argued the blame lied with both President Trump and former President Biden.
It isn’t known what impact the program’s removal will have on the Cuban American community, especially in Miami-Dade County. It also isn’t known if the immigration enforcement efforts will mainly focus on the other groups it covered. The CHNV program is set to expire on April 24, 2025.
As always, ILBSG actively monitors ongoing U.S. immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, contact us. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you get the right advice based on the most recent laws. In an ever-evolving immigration policy landscape, it’s particularly critical.
