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Trump mum on refugee admissions despite pleas from Congress

The administration has drastically reduced the number of refugees resettled annually in the United States.
US President Donald Trump speaks on Covid-19 testing in the Rose Garden of the White House in Washington, DC on September 28, 2020. (Photo by MANDEL NGAN / AFP) (Photo by MANDEL NGAN/AFP via Getty Images)

As conflicts across the Middle East bring continued waves of displacement, the Trump administration hasn’t yet told Congress how many refugees will be allowed to settle in the United States next year, despite a legal requirement that it do so. 

Before the new fiscal year starts Oct. 1, the White House is required by law to report to the House and Senate Judiciary committees next year’s cap for refugee admissions. Prior to issuing a determination, the administration is supposed to send Cabinet-level officials to consult with members. 

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