Former President Trump's key advisor on immigration, Stephen Miller, recently met with House Republicans to discuss border security and immigration policy. During the hour-long meeting, Miller highlighted the need to expand Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and explore methods to reduce federal funding for sanctuary cities and states.
The meeting's timing coincides with congressional Republicans' preparations for a substantial policy shift through the budget reconciliation process. This process allows the controlling party to enact significant policy changes with a simple majority vote in the Senate, as long as they pertain to budgetary matters. Miller reportedly focused on which border and immigration policies could be included in a reconciliation package and the necessary congressional funding.
According to sources, Miller acknowledged that the more contentious aspects of Trump's immigration agenda would likely not garner Democratic support and would therefore need to be addressed through reconciliation. Bipartisan initiatives, however, could be pursued through regular legislative channels.
A key takeaway from the meeting was the emphasis on effective communication. Miller stressed the importance of conveying their message to the American public. Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC) indicated that Miller discussed "low-hanging fruit" that could be addressed via executive order, including deportations. Rep. Mark Alford (R-MO) expressed concerns about the financial burden on taxpayers due to the Biden administration's immigration policies.
Miller addressed the Republican Study Committee (RSC), the largest conservative caucus in the House, led by Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX). Pfluger affirmed the RSC's alignment with the incoming Trump administration's goals on border security and immigration enforcement. He pledged to collaborate with Miller and his team to achieve legislative success. While House GOP leaders like Speaker Mike Johnson were not present, the meeting signifies the close attention Trump and his team are paying to congressional Republicans, with frequent communication and invitations to Mar-a-Lago.
