US vice-president JD Vance sparks debate over remarks on green card

PTC Web Desk: Vice President of the United States (US) JD Vance reignited controversy on Thursday saying holding a green card does not grant immigrants an absolute right to remain in the United States indefinitely. Speaking on Fox News' The Ingraham Angle, Vance stated, "A green card holder doesn't have an indefinite right to be in the United States," reinforcing the notion that permanent residency is not synonymous with lifelong security.

His comments were made in response to the arrest of Columbia University graduate student Mahmoud Khalil, a green card holder detained on Saturday for his involvement in protests against the Israel-Hamas war last spring. The Trump administration has moved to revoke Khalil’s green card, accusing him of supporting Hamas-led activities, though no formal charges have been filed against him.

Khalil is currently being held in immigration custody in Louisiana following his arrest in New York City. His legal team argues that the administration's actions violate his First Amendment rights, claiming he is being targeted for his advocacy rather than any unlawful activity. Critics, including free speech advocates, warn that such measures could suppress dissent and set a troubling precedent.

Under the US Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952, immigrants can be deported if the Secretary of State deems their presence detrimental to American foreign policy. Legal experts note that this provision is rarely enforced, and Khalil’s lawyers argue it was not meant to curb political expression. The Justice Department has not provided details on how Khalil poses a threat to US foreign policy, while Trump officials continue to allege—without presenting evidence—that he has ties to Hamas.