A recent bipartisan vote has sparked anger among President Trump’s supporters. Seven Republicans have sided with Democrats to pass a bill that extends temporary protected status for many Haitian nationals.
The measure passed with a tally of 220-207, bringing together these seven Republicans with all Democrats in favor. The list includes Don Bacon (R-NE), Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Carlos Gimenez (R-FL), Mike Lawler (R-NY), Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), and Maria Salazar (R-FL).
Details of the Legislation
This legislation, introduced by Rep. Laura Gillen (D-NY), seeks to maintain the Temporary Protected Status for Haiti. This status prevents the deportation of eligible individuals and enables them to work within the United States.
Current Status of Haitian Nationals
Approximately 350,000 Haitian nationals are eligible for this protection. The Trump administration previously aimed to end this designation by 2025, considering it contrary to the national interest, although court rulings have paused this move pending further evaluation.
Next Steps and Expected Reactions
The bill will now progress to the Senate, where a similar initiative must be reviewed and passed for it to reach the president’s desk. If it gets through both legislative chambers, it will likely be met with a veto from President Trump.
The administration has long opposed any extensions to TPS for Haiti, focusing on immigration enforcement and the conditions within Haiti itself. Past attempts to override Trump’s vetoes on different legislation this term have not succeeded, indicating a slim chance for this one as well.
Backlash from Trump’s Base
The actions of these seven Republicans have drawn significant backlash from Trump’s supporters, including criticism from fellow Republican members. U.S. Rep. Brandon Gill (R-TX) stated, “H Res 965 is backdoor amnesty for hundreds of thousands of Haitians who came into our country illegally.”
He added, “It is an abject disgrace and a shameful betrayal of everything Republicans ran on in 2024. All conservatives should vehemently reject it.” The bill was ultimately approved with 219 votes on the House floor.
