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Interview with Padre Alberto at La Poderosa 670 AM

Mass Deportations, Border Security, and Temporary Work Visas

Recently, I’ve joined El Padre Alberto on La Poderosa – 670 AM to discuss the critical topics in immigration policy. With misinformation and fear circulating widely, we provided clarity on issues like mass deportations, the role of fear in immigration enforcement, and the recent expansion of temporary worker visas.

The Reality Behind Mass Deportations

One of the main topics we addressed was the concern over mass deportations. I explained that; while media headlines often sensationalize the issue, the reality is far less dramatic. I emphasized that while deportations might increase under certain policies, logistical and financial challenges make the idea of mass deportations highly unrealistic.

Mass deportations are not feasible, while there may be an uptick in enforcement, the concept of millions being removed all at once is simply not possible due to resource and logistical limitations.

Immigration Law Attorney - Martha L. Arias, Esq. - mass deportations

Fear and Self-Deportation

We also discussed the psychological impact of such policies, particularly how fear can lead to what’s commonly referred to as “self-deportation.” Fear-mongering often drives individuals to leave the U.S. voluntarily, believing it will protect them from detention or deportation.

However, I advised that undocumented individuals without criminal records can minimize their risk of detention by avoiding activities that attract the attention of immigration authorities, such as driving without a license or being involved in legal troubles.

The Importance of Legal Guidance

Another critical issue we discussed was the harm caused by unqualified notaries or document preparers who mishandle immigration cases. These individuals often file cases improperly, leaving immigrants unaware of looming deportation orders.

This is a heartbreaking reality, people come to my office after unknowingly receiving deportation orders because a notary or preparer mishandled their case. It’s essential to work with licensed attorneys who understand the law.

Border Security and National Guard Deployment

Addressing border security, I acknowledged the need for resources like the National Guard at the border, calling it a matter of national security. However, I cautioned against deploying military forces in cities or states, as it could create unnecessary panic.

Immigration enforcement should focus on maintaining order and respect, fear and terror should never be the tools we use to manage immigration policy.

Expansion of H2-B Temporary Work Visas

The conversation also touched on President Biden’s recent decision to increase the number of H2-B temporary worker visas by 65,000. These visas, essential for industries like hospitality, agriculture, and food service, help address seasonal labor shortages while maintaining a structured immigration process.

These visas are critical for meeting labor demands during peak seasons, they allow workers to contribute to the economy while returning home periodically to reunite with their families.

English Transcript

Padre Alberto:
Today we are speaking clearly, and we have so many important things to discuss. I’ve invited Attorney Martha Arias to join us for this segment of the program because immigration news isn’t going anywhere. Attorney, thank you for being here with us.

Martha Arias:
Thank you very much, Father, for inviting me. A special greeting to you and the entire audience of La Poderosa.

Padre Alberto:
Thank you, Attorney. Let’s talk a little about mass deportations. How do you see this issue?

Martha Arias:
Well, I see this as a mix of sensationalist media and, at the same time, reverse psychology from former President Trump.

It’s sensationalist because headlines like these sell a lot. News about “mass deportations,” or “they’re going to everyone’s house,” creates panic, chaos, and sells papers. It’s an alarmist tone, and people tend to pay more attention to scandalous news than to something like financial news, which we should also care about.

On the other hand, it’s reverse psychology because the president can benefit from the fear it creates. If people start panicking, many may decide to leave on their own to avoid the fear of being arrested or deported. This reduces the burden on his administration without them having to do much.

As for mass deportations, they are not realistic. There could be an increase in deportations, but mass deportations are not feasible due to logistical and resource constraints.

Padre Alberto:
Attorney, I’m also thinking about the economic side of this. One of the major criticisms of this proposal is that there’s no budget for mass deportations—it would be extremely expensive.

And as you mentioned, many people might opt for “self-deportation” out of fear. But what about those who have no criminal background but also no legal papers?

Martha Arias:
Let’s divide that question into two parts. First, immigration law does provide for the deportation of people without legal status. However, for someone without a criminal background who isn’t a risk to be detained, they would have to come into contact with the authorities.

These detentions generally happen when someone is driving without a license, gets into an accident, or lives in a residence where authorities are looking for someone else. It can also happen if someone has a prior deportation or pending process.

There are also heartbreaking cases where individuals unknowingly end up with deportation orders because they trusted notaries or document preparers who filed applications without informing them. This underscores the importance of working with qualified attorneys.

Padre Alberto:
I see. And about using the National Guard or the military to reinforce the border, what’s your opinion?

Martha Arias:
I think it’s reasonable to use resources at the border to maintain order because it’s a matter of national security. However, deploying the military in cities or states would create unnecessary panic. Immigration should be handled with control and respect, not fear.

As for the border, reinforcing it is justified because there are illegal entries not only by land but also by sea and less monitored routes, like in Canada.

Padre Alberto:
Finally, Attorney, President Biden signed an order to issue 65,000 H2-B visas for temporary workers. What can you tell us about this?

Martha Arias:
Every year, around 90,000 H2-B visas are issued for unskilled workers. These visas are usually divided into three periods, but the president can increase the quota depending on labor market needs.

These visas benefit sectors like agriculture, hotels, and restaurants. Workers come for specific seasons, which helps meet peak labor demand. It’s a system that balances the need for temporary workers with immigration control.

Padre Alberto:
Thank you very much, Attorney Martha Arias, for sharing your time and knowledge with us. God bless you.

Martha Arias:
Amen. Thank you so much, and have a wonderful rest of the week, everyone.

About Martha Arias

Immigration Attorney, Martha Liliana Arias, Esq. is the founder and sole owner of Arias Villa Law, a full-service immigration law firm located in Miami, FL. Martha has been exclusively and successfully practicing U.S. immigration law for almost two decades; she has relevant experience with removal defense cases, USCIS and NVC cases, and business visas, particularly EB-5 investor visas.

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