Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi condemns Trump administration’s proposed travel ban and education cuts 

By: Dr. Avi Verma, Ashwani Mahajan

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi has strongly condemned the Trump administration’s reported plans to expand the controversial travel ban and significantly reduce the Department of Education’s workforce, citing severe repercussions for national security, the economy, and American values.

Opposition to travel ban expansion

In a letter to President Trump, Congressman Krishnamoorthi urged the administration to abandon its proposed expansion of the travel ban, which could affect countries such as Afghanistan and Pakistan. He warned that the policy would not only hinder family reunification but also betray thousands of Afghan allies who supported U.S. military and civilian personnel and now face threats from the Taliban.

“With respect to Afghanistan, this ban could leave thousands in limbo—former translators, military aides, and government workers who were promised protection from Taliban retaliation and are in the lawful process of obtaining U.S. visas,” Krishnamoorthi wrote. “Eliminating safe and secure legal immigration pathways only hurts our national security.”

He also emphasized the economic consequences, pointing out that the 2017 travel ban prevented skilled professionals from entering the U.S., negatively impacting industries that depend on international talent. “Reinstating this discriminatory policy for additional countries would weaken our national security and economy,” he stated.

Condemnation of education cuts

Congressman Krishnamoorthi also criticized the Trump administration’s reported plan to eliminate half of the Department of Education’s workforce, with further intentions to dismantle the entire agency. Calling the move “reckless,” he highlighted the devastating impact such cuts would have on students and working families.

“As a product of great public schools, I know firsthand just how important they are for working families,” Krishnamoorthi said. “Weakening our education system not only shortchanges our children but also undermines our workforce and economy at a time when our global competitors are investing more—not less—in education.”

He warned that gutting the department’s workforce would cripple essential programs that provide students with educational resources, further widening disparities in the education system.

A call for action

The Congressman’s firm stance underscores growing opposition to the administration’s policies, which he argues contradict core American values. He called on lawmakers and the public to resist these measures and push for policies that uphold inclusion, opportunity, and investment in future generations.

As the debate unfolds, Krishnamoorthi remains committed to advocating for immigrant rights and the protection of public education, standing against policies he believes would damage the country’s social and economic fabric.