Imphal, June 4: The U.S. Mission in Vietnam and the U.S. Mission in India jointly hosted a visual moderated discussion titled “Smart Choices, Safe Futures: Understanding the Risks and Realities of Illegal Migration” featuring U.S. immigration expert and policy advisor Michael Hough on Wednesday.
Michael Hough, Director of Federal Relations for Numbers USA and a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, led the session, providing participants from India and Vietnam with a clearer perspective on the realities of unauthorised migration and the evolving U.S. immigration policy. A former Maryland state senator and Chief of Staff to U.S. Representative Alex Mooney (R), Hough brought extensive experience in immigration policy and federal relations.
During the session, Hough outlined the strong public mandate given to President Donald Trump to address the illegal immigration crisis, detailing the administration’s “whole-of-government” approach to strengthen border security and curb unauthorised migration. He also highlighted the dangers and legal consequences of illegal migration while explaining the economic and public policy rationale behind U.S. immigration reforms.
Hough emphasised the administration’s unwavering commitment to tackling illegal immigration through this comprehensive strategy, noting that President Trump has enforced immigration laws with greater determination than any previous president to combat a long-standing issue.
Responding to participant queries, Michael Hough stressed that visa overstays constitute a major concern, with approximately 7,000 cases occurring annually. He underscored the security risks posed by illegal immigration and called for entry exclusively through legal channels.
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Addressing investments in technology and infrastructure, Hough highlighted the allocation of $150 billion in additional funding over five years dedicated to advancing the Trump administration’s border and immigration agenda. This includes enhancements such as drones, biometric screening, and critical infrastructure improvements aimed at managing increased immigration enforcement without causing undue delays or mistreatment of migrants.
The discussion also covered the significant risks associated with illegal migration, including perilous journeys and severe legal repercussions. Hough urged prospective migrants to seek legal avenues for entry into the United States to ensure their safety and compliance with U.S. laws.