Millions of immigrants are now in legal limbo amid the asylum freeze

By Sergio Martínez-Beltrán

Published December 16, 2025 at 5:25 PM EST

Millions of immigrants in the U.S. who have applied for asylum are now in legal limbo after President Trump paused decisions on all asylum cases. Even some Republican lawmakers now are pushing back.

Sergio Martínez-Beltrán

Sergio Martínez-Beltrán (SARE-he-oh mar-TEE-nez bel-TRAHN) is an immigration correspondent based in Texas.

Support nonprofit, fact-based public service journalism

WEKU depends on support from those who view and listen to our content. There's no paywall here. Please support WEKU with your donation.

Contribute now

Related Content

The Commonwealth

Frankfort detective says KSU shooting suspect was trying to protect sons

Curtis Tate

A Franklin District Court judge reduced bond for Jacob Lee Bard from $1 million to $100,000 and sent the case to a grand jury.
NPR News

Nick Reiner will be charged with first degree murder in his parents' killing

Clare Lombardo

The 32-year-old son of famed director Rob Reiner is being held without bail. Los Angeles authorities say the charges against him carry a maximum sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole.
NPR News

After outcry over prices, FIFA to sell $60 tickets for the World Cup -- with a catch

Rafael Nam

FIFA said it would sell $60 tickets to the World Cup, including for the final — but only for supporters of qualified teams. And the actual number of available tickets is limited.
As threats grow, 'parasol patrol' provides security for Drag Story Hour

Jackie Sedley

Drag Story Hour, where drag performers read to kids, has weathered attacks and threats over the years. In Denver, a volunteer "parasol patrol" provides security to families attending Drag Story Hour.
Only two species can survive in Great Salt Lake? Scientist says — hold my Nalgene

Henry Larson, Justine Kenin

Scientist Julie Jung set out on a hike along the Great Salt Lake to find nematodes. She ended up discovering a new species.