DeWine Critiques Trump’s Decision on Temporary Protected Status for Haitians

On CBS’s “Face the Nation” this past Sunday, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine voiced his disagreement with President Donald Trump’s choice to revoke Haitians’ Temporary Protected Status (TPS).

Here’s an excerpt from the discussion:

MARGARET BRENNAN: Governor DeWine, Ohio is a key area for both the Trump-Vance campaign and the administration as we approach 2024, particularly regarding the large Haitian population in your state. You mentioned this week that ICE has not clarified when they may increase enforcement in Ohio. Did you raise these concerns while in the White House?

DEWINE: No, I didn’t have that kind of opportunity. Look, Margaret, my stance on TPS for Haitians is quite apparent—

Brennan: Temporary protected status.

DEWINE: Exactly.

Brennan: The president is looking to rescind that at this time.

DEWINE: I believe that decision is misguided. There seems to be a general agreement in the country, especially regarding the expulsion of violent criminals. There’s definitely a need to manage border security effectively, and I think the president deserves recognition for his efforts in that area. Yet, on the matter of supporting individuals who are working and raising families, the sentiment seems more divided. For instance, in Springfield, we’ve seen firsthand how the Haitian community plays a crucial role in revitalizing our city, which has struggled economically. Employers are finding that Haitians are stepping in to fill crucial gaps in the workforce, thus boosting the local economy significantly. If these individuals discover their TPS has been taken away, it’ll severely impact their employment prospects. So, I maintain that this policy is misguided. The real chance for the president to address immigration reform is likely after the election—there’s not much that can be done before then.

BRENAN: So, after the midterm elections in 2026?

DEWINE: That’s accurate, but I see a potential opportunity. He has tightened border control. I was in Congress during the ’80s when significant immigration bills were pushed through, so I’ve heard all the discussions. There’s a real potential to amend the legal immigration pathway and decide whom we wish to admit. For example, currently, about 22,000 international students are enrolled in Ohio. We educate them, but then they often leave—either going home or moving elsewhere. They could greatly contribute to the workforce in Ohio. That’s a chance for reform—

BRENAN: You’re suggesting comprehensive immigration reform.

DEWINE: Yes, I believe the president has a unique opportunity to address immigration in a way that hasn’t been seen in the last four decades. If he capitalizes on that after the elections, there might be a significant chance for change.