Biden DHS exempted thousands of immigrants from terror-related entry restrictions in FY 2024

Fox News - Jan 14th, 2025
Open on Fox News

The Biden administration has issued nearly 7,000 exemptions in FY 2024 to foreign nationals who would typically be ineligible for U.S. entry due to terrorism-related restrictions. This marks a significant increase from previous years, with most exemptions granted to refugees, particularly those from Afghanistan. The exemptions are based on criteria like providing support under duress or offering medical care. The draft report to Congress highlights the administration's approach, contrasting with the Trump administration's stricter policies and expected tightening of refugee admissions as part of its immigration strategy.

The decision has sparked criticism from Republicans and former Trump officials, who argue that it undermines national security by allowing potential threats into the country. Critics, such as Michael Bars, accuse the Biden administration of prioritizing immigration expansion over safeguarding against terrorism. The Department of Homeland Security defends the rigorous vetting process each applicant undergoes, asserting that these exemptions are carefully reviewed and only granted to individuals posing no security risks. The story underscores the ongoing debate over U.S. immigration policies and their implications for national security.

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RATING

6.8
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article provides a detailed exploration of the Biden administration's use of TRIG exemptions, with a focus on refugee admissions and immigration policy. It offers a factual account supported by specific data points, although its reliance on a singular perspective undermines its balance. The source quality is moderate, with primary reliance on a draft report reviewed by Fox News Digital, which raises questions about the comprehensiveness of the reportage. Transparency is adequate but could benefit from more detailed context about the TRIG process and its implications. Clarity is generally strong, with clear language and structure, although certain emotive language could detract from its objectivity. Overall, while the article covers an important subject with substantial detail, its presentation could be improved with more balanced viewpoints and diversified sources.

RATING DETAILS

8
Accuracy

The article presents specific data about the TRIG exemptions, such as the number of waivers issued in FY 2024, and compares these figures with those from previous years. It accurately relays information from a draft report, detailing the increase in exemptions and providing context regarding the Biden administration's refugee cap. However, the article would benefit from additional verification from independent or governmental sources to reinforce its claims. For instance, it mentions the rigorous security vetting process but does not provide detailed evidence or examples of how this process is implemented, leaving some claims less substantiated.

5
Balance

The article predominantly presents perspectives critical of the Biden administration's immigration policies, particularly from former Trump administration officials and Republican critics. This focus creates an imbalance, as it lacks substantial viewpoints from Biden administration officials or independent analysts who might provide a counterbalance or additional context. For example, while it quotes Michael Bars criticizing the administration, it does not include direct responses from DHS or other officials to these criticisms, which could provide a more rounded view. This lack of balance might skew the reader's understanding of the issue.

8
Clarity

The article is generally clear, with a logical structure and straightforward language that makes the complex topic accessible to readers. It effectively breaks down the data, such as the number of TRIG exemptions over different fiscal years, aiding in reader comprehension. However, the tone occasionally slips into emotive language, as seen in phrases like 'viciously targeted,' which can detract from the article's objectivity. Overall, the article's clarity is strong, but maintaining a consistently neutral tone would enhance its professionalism and effectiveness.

6
Source quality

The article's primary source is a draft of the DHS report reviewed by Fox News Digital, which is a legitimate but limited source. While it offers detailed numerical data, the lack of additional sources like interviews, official statements, or third-party analyses weakens the overall reliability. The reference to DHS's non-response to requests for comment highlights a gap in the reporting. Additionally, while quoting former officials adds some depth, reliance on potentially partisan voices without corroborative evidence limits the article's authority.

7
Transparency

The article provides some transparency by detailing the source of its information, specifically the draft report reviewed by Fox News Digital. It also outlines the criteria and process for TRIG exemptions, offering insight into the subject matter. However, the article could enhance transparency by providing more context about the implications of these exemptions and the criteria used in the vetting process. Additionally, it does not disclose any potential conflicts of interest or affiliations of the quoted individuals, which could affect the impartiality of the reporting.