Manchin spearheads effort to reverse Biden policy on unaccompanied migrant children

In a bold move, Senator Joe Manchin of West Virginia, who recently left the Democratic Party to become an Independent, is leading a group of 45 Senate Republicans in a resolution to overturn a Biden administration rule regarding the care of unaccompanied migrant children. The rule, put forth by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), has sparked controversy for its alleged lack of stringent vetting of sponsors for the children.

Manchin expressed his concerns about the rule, stating that it could jeopardize the safety of migrant children by placing them in the hands of unvetted sponsors. He criticized the administration for not addressing the crisis at the southern border effectively and allowing rules like this one to perpetuate cycles of exploitation associated with illegal immigration.

The resolution, if passed by both the Senate and House and signed by the president, would overturn the administration’s new rule. Manchin has the power to bring the resolution to a vote through the Congressional Review Act, bypassing any potential filibusters.

HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra defended the rule, stating that it sets clear standards for the care and treatment of unaccompanied children in the custody of the Office of Refugee Resettlement. However, Manchin and his Republican colleagues argue that the rule falls short in ensuring the welfare of these vulnerable children.

The resolution is expected to spark heated debates in Congress as lawmakers grapple with the complex issue of immigration and the protection of unaccompanied migrant children. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.