Hundreds from South Sudan Await Court Decision on Residency
A federal judge is currently reviewing a case that could determine whether South Sudanese individuals can continue to live and work in the United States legally. This follows a previous decision by President Trump to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for people from the East African nation.
The termination of TPS, initially set for January 6, 2026, would have potentially led to the deportation of approximately 300 South Sudanese nationals living and working in the U.S. under the program.
Civil rights groups challenged the decision, alleging that it violated administrative procedure and was motivated by a desire to reduce the number of non-white immigrants in the United States.
U.S. District Judge Angel Kelley in Massachusetts has temporarily blocked the federal government from initiating deportations while the case is under review.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) criticized the court’s decision. According to DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin, “Temporary Protected Status was abused to allow violent terrorists, criminals, and national security threats into our nation.”
McLaughlin argued that conditions in South Sudan have improved, stating there is “renewed peace” and a “demonstrated commitment to ensuring the safe reintegration of returning nationals.” She asserted that ending TPS is appropriate.
TPS is granted to foreign nationals from countries facing significant hardship due to war or natural disasters. Those applying for TPS must already be in the U.S. and pass background checks.
Critics have suggested the Trump administration’s initial decision was politically motivated.
