The future of DACA under a new Trump presidency

 

WEST ALLIS, Wis. (CBS 58) — President-elect Donald Trump will return to the White House in January 2026, and if you heard him on the campaign trail, immigration was one of his top issues. This has left many Latinos wondering: what does this mean for us?

Daniel Gutierrez, a paralegal with Soberalski Law says they have been inundated with thousands of emails and calls since Election Day by immigrants in southeastern Wisconsin concerned about what a new Trump presidency could mean for them.

In Trump's first term, he sought to end DACA, the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. This program protected those who came to the U.S. undocumented as children from deportation.

As of now, DACA recipients can renew their status, but no new applications are being accepted.

Paralegal Gutierrez recommends those who are DACA recipients with a permit that expires in 2025 to renew their permit now. This way, they can secure status for their two years, and avoid possible delays.

Gutierrez says there is a high probability that DACA will be rescinded, either by the Trump administration, or by a Louisiana federal court.

He explains that the effects could be devastating: “Communities will definitely be affected and, unfortunately, many could lose their status and not be able to continue in their workplaces. Many are now professionals in their careers and that will have a significant impact on their economy, but also on their families and communities.”

It is estimated that there are more than half a million DACA recipients in the United States.

Gutierrez's message to immigrants is not to lose hope. Be prepared and know what your legal status is, when the deadlines are and stay in touch with your attorney.

To contact Soberalski Law, you can call (414) 533-5000, go to their offices at 1135 S. 70th Street, Suite 402, West Allis, or visit their website.