Trump Administration’s Proposed Refugee Cap for 2026
The Trump administration is reportedly looking at setting a cap on refugee hospitalizations at around 40,000 for the year 2026. Sources mention that a notable number of these individuals could be white South Africans, as reported by Reuters.
According to two U.S. officials who are familiar with the matter and an email from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), there’s a possibility that up to 30,000 slots might be allocated for African refugees. Since taking office, President Trump has frequently addressed the issues of violence and discrimination facing minority communities in South Africa, particularly those of Dutch descent.
White House spokesperson Anna Kelly remarked to the Daily Color News Foundation that news outlets like Reuters have often overlooked the suffering of Africans, who have faced severe crimes including murder and assault, often as the government fails to provide protection. She emphasized that “President Trump has a humanitarian heart,” highlighting his intention to welcome these individuals into the U.S. However, she noted that the discussions around refugee numbers are still speculative and that final decisions would be made next month.
In May, Trump signed a Presidential Order aimed at facilitating the resettlement of African refugees, addressing documented instances of racial violence and discrimination in their home countries.
The administration’s orders criticize the South African government for neglecting the rights of its citizens, outlining how government policies have dismantled equal opportunities in employment, education, and business, while inciting disproportionate violence against marginalized groups.
According to reports, HHS officials have informed state-level refugee coordinators about the expected cap of 40,000 refugees for 2026. This would represent a sharp decline from the 100,000 refugee threshold set under the previous Biden administration back in 2024.
In a White House conference alongside South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Trump warned of potential “genocide” against these communities, drawing attention to ongoing discrimination and violent attacks on Africans.
The first group of 59 African refugees arrived in the U.S., with 34 more reported to have come in by early August. Some refugee advocacy organizations, like Bishop’s Immigration Services, have chosen to end their partnerships with the federal government following Trump’s push for the resettlement of African refugees.
