Cuccinelli accepts responsibility for decision to deport patients

Ken Cuccinelli, acting director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Wednesday took responsibility for the Trump administration’s August 2019 decision to initiate deportation proceedings against critically ill patients and their families. Cuccinelli testified to the House Committee on Oversight and Reform subcommittee on civil rights and civil liberties.

Cuccinelli did not say why he had reversed long-standing policy that allowed individuals undergoing medical treatment in the U.S., including those who participate in clinical trials, to request and obtain deferrals of deportation if they could not otherwise legally remain in the country. He refused to reveal whether he had discussed the decision with President Donald Trump or any officials at the White House. ...