
As President Donald Trump secures his second term, South Florida braces for the impact of stringent border policies that have already begun to resonate throughout immigrant communities. According to a report by CBS News Miami, Margelis Tinocco, along with over 30,000 migrants, felt the immediate sting of change when her immigration appointment was canceled following the termination of the CBP One app. Immigration attorney Willie Allen voiced his concern, stating, "I'm concerned if we militarize the border, what will happen next."
As outlined in Trump’s inaugural address, the reactivation of the "Remain in Mexico" policy and the designation of cartels as foreign terrorist organizations were among the swift alterations. Further complicating the situation, the president pledged the introduction of troops to the southern border to thwart what he describes as a disastrous invasion. Meanwhile, Florida's own landscape is shifting as Governor Ron DeSantis has chosen Ashley Moody for the U.S. Senate, according to information found in Miami Herald.
Gepsie Mettellus of Sant La Haitian Neighborhood Center has been proactive in preparing for the fallout, "It's important that our family members take every measure to protect their assets, their children and their interests," with plans for workshops to assist those impacted. The sentiment in Little Havana's Versailles Restaurant stands divided, with critiques and praises reflecting the schism these policies have spawned amongst the populace. Brenda Nerrill found the disruptions to the immigration process unfair, while support came from Carlos Leal, who advocated for controlled borders, as reported by CBS News Miami.
Resonating throughout these developments, the reaction of immigrants to Trump's speech, as encapsulated by immigration attorney Willie Allen, is quoted as fear. While Allen and others within the advocacy sphere express grave concern for the human factor amidst policy shifts, Eduardo Blasco, a Trump supporter, heralded the changes as "a great day for America," as noted by CBS News Miami.