Accusations mount against the Biden administration over paroled immigrants with criminal ties receiving federal benefits, sparking a nationwide debate.
Key Takeaways
- The Department of Government Efficiency reported that over $1.3 million in federal benefits went to paroled immigrants with criminal records.
- Critics, including financial experts, question the administration’s vetting and benefit distribution processes.
- The White House has since terminated the parole status of the affected immigrants.
- Concerns rise over the potential security risks and misuse of taxpayer funds.
- Congressional Democrats urge investigations into the operation of federal agencies managing these benefits.
Federal Benefits for Paroled Immigrants
Recent reports reveal that immigrants paroled into the U.S. under the Biden administration have allegedly collected over $1.3 million in federal benefits, despite having criminal or terrorist ties. These individuals received taxpayer-funded aid through programs like Medicaid, tax refunds, and student loans. The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, highlighted these concerns, triggering substantial criticism.
Following these revelations, the White House terminated the parole status of 6,300 individuals identified on the FBI’s Terrorist Screening Center watchlist or with criminal records. Despite this move, skeptics question the initial decision to grant parole and benefits. Benefits included $276,000 from Medicaid, $280,000 in student loans, and $751,000 in tax refunds. These figures have added fuel to an already heated debate on immigration and national security.
Under the Biden administration, it was routine for Border Patrol to admit aliens into the United States with no legal status and minimal screening. So far, CBP identified a subset of 6.3k individuals paroled into the United States since 2023 on the FBI's Terrorist Screening… https://t.co/nSLwwaUmtb
— Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) April 10, 2025
Criticisms of the Vetting Process
The Biden administration’s parole programs have faced intense scrutiny. Critics argue these programs allowed immigrants from specific countries to enter the U.S. legally with insufficient vetting.
Internal documents also indicate unconventional methods, such as classifying living migrants as deceased in SSA records, were used to reduce improper benefit distribution. While some argue these measures protect taxpayer funds, others express concern they may harm eligible U.S. citizens and lawful residents. Congressional Democrats demand thorough investigations into DOGE’s operations and data handling to clear ambiguities and ensure transparency.
Impact on Immigration Policy and Security
The report from the House Homeland Security Committee criticizes the Biden administration for mass-parole strategies used to admit inadmissible aliens with minimal vetting. “It is clear that the Biden-Harris administration has intentionally used unlawful mass-parole schemes,” it reads, highlighting the program’s risks. The Center for Immigration Studies revealed that 59.4% of illegal immigrant households receive welfare benefits, stressing the need for reform.
In response to the heightened scrutiny, government officials emphasize the urgent need to rectify administrative lapses and secure the border effectively. Failure to address these issues could compromise national security, taxpayer funds, and the welfare of legitimate beneficiaries. The unfolding saga continues to impact U.S. immigration policies, drawing attention to the issue of national safety.
