Temporary Protected Status Designated Country for Venezuelans

In another failed political stunt, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis flew approximately 50

immigrants, a majority of which are from Venezuela, to Martha’s Vineyard. DeSantis’s stunt

cost the state of Florida 12 million dollars. DeSantis’s office did not elaborate on the

immigration status of the migrants and did this to draw attention to the current U.S. border

policies. The timeframe is not a coincidence as the seasonal period for work has come to an end

and the median home cost is $1 million dollars. Intentionally placing immigrants in a position

where they are unable to find work and afford the living costs. However, residents of Martha’s

Vineyard welcomed the immigrants by providing 50 beds, meals, a play area for children,

providing access to health care, and support they needed. There is also additional space being

prepared in case further arrivals occur. State Rep. Dylan Fernandes, the representative for

Martha’s Vineyard stated, “We are a community that comes together to support immigrants.”

This is not the first-time politicians have used immigrants for their political gain. Texas

Governor Greg Abbott has been busing thousands of immigrants since April to Washington D.C

as well as Chicago and New York. Arizona Governor Doug Ducey has also been busing

immigrants to Washington. Rep. Bill Keating stated “History does not look kindly on leaders

who treat human beings like cargo, loading them up and sending them a thousand miles away

without telling them their destinations.” Immigrants are not tools to make progress in politics,

these are human beings who deserve to be treated with respect and kindness just like everyone

else.

Many Venezuelans are currently entering the United States under Temporary Protected Status

(TPS). The Department of Homeland Security recently extended TPS registration for

Venezuelans for 18 more months. “This action is one of many ways the Biden administration is

providing humanitarian support to Venezuelans at home and abroad, together with our regional

partners. We will continue to work with our international partners to address the challenges of

regional migration while ensuring our borders remain secure.” Stated Secretary Mayorkas This

extension will be effective from September 10, 2022 through March 10, 2024.

If you have questions about TPS or any other immigration issue, please contact our office at 719-

602-4477 for a consultation.