Congresswoman Salazar Asks Administration for Deferred Action on Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL) sent a letter to President Donald Trump urging him to offer Deferred Enforcement Departure (DED) for individuals from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela who were legally paroled into the United States through the CHNV program. The letter highlights the unique crises in these countries and proposes DED as a solution to ensure proper vetting while maintaining America’s commitment to protecting those fleeing persecution and violence.

“We must protect the promises made to the people from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela with both compassion and security in mind,” said Rep. Salazar. “These countries are plagued by communist, repressive dictatorships and gang violence. While we restore law and order here at home, DED will allow us to vet these individuals thoroughly, deport those who don’t qualify, and uphold America’s legacy as a beacon of hope.”

In her letter, dated April 9, 2025, Rep. Salazar outlines the unprecedented migration crisis in the Western Hemisphere, exacerbated by the previous administration’s policies that allowed over 10 million people to cross the southern border, many illegally. She praises the current administration’s efforts to work with countries south of the border to control the situation and emphasizes the distinct challenges in Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela—nations marked by oppressive regimes and instability. Salazar argues that DED, a discretionary presidential authority, would enable case-by-case assessments, ensuring that only those genuinely fleeing harm remain, while fraudulent entrants or criminals are swiftly deported.

The full text of the letter is attached HERE for reference.