Donald Trump Rules Out Amnesty Despite Openness to Immigration Deal

President Donald Trump fluctuated on his immigration stance following Republican midterm election losses that granted Democrats majorities in the next Congress. In a 60 Minutes interview, Trump suggested his deportation crackdown might have been too tough, specifically for immigrants who have lived and worked in the U.S. for years. This signal of openness to a compromise prompted some lawmakers to urge him to pursue historic reform.

However, Trump reversed this position on November 9, stating at the White House that his policy has not changed and explicitly ruling out amnesty. He maintained that the administration will continue to target dangerous criminals and keep a strong deportation policy. This reaffirmation coincided with the appointment of immigration hardliner Stephen Miller as White House chief of staff.

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin noted that while Democrats have reached out for cooperation, any deal would require the support of the Republican base. Mullin opposed general amnesty but suggested Congress could consider specific measures for DACA recipients. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer dismissed the possibility of a policy shift given Miller's promotion, while Representative María Elvira Salazar welcomed the president's initial willingness to discuss reform.