DHS Secretary Mullin Open to DACA Discussions, But Congress Holds the Key

DHS Secretary Mullin Open to DACA Deal, But No Concrete Plan Yet

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin has expressed openness to discussing a potential deal with Congress regarding the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. However, he stressed that any legislative action would need to come from lawmakers, and he has not put forth a specific proposal or policy change. Mullin stated that he is willing to talk about possibilities, such as DACA recipients potentially becoming legal permanent residents, but emphasized that the details and decision-making power rest with Congress.

Mullin’s remarks, made on November 9, 2026, suggest a willingness to engage in discussions about the future of DACA recipients. He indicated that Democrats have reached out to him about immigration legislation, and he has informed President Donald Trump of these communications. Trump reportedly encouraged Mullin to begin discussions with Democrats. Despite this openness to dialogue, Mullin was clear that no concrete immigration policy changes have been discussed with Trump, and the administration’s law enforcement approach is not expected to change.

DACA’s Current Status and Protections

The DACA program, established in 2012, provides temporary protection from deportation and work authorization to eligible individuals who were brought to the United States as children. It is important to note that DACA does not grant permanent legal status. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has previously stated that DACA recipients could face arrest and deportation if they do not maintain their eligibility. Between January 20 and September 28, 2025, DHS reported arresting 264 DACA recipients nationwide, with over 92% having prior criminal charges or convictions.

Mullin Rejects Amnesty, Leaves Path to Legal Status to Congress

A key point in Mullin’s statements was his rejection of amnesty as a solution for DACA recipients. He did not provide a clear definition of what he considers amnesty or how it differs from a potential pathway to legal status for DACA recipients. He reiterated that any legislative path forward, including the possibility of permanent residency, would be determined by Congress. This leaves the eligibility requirements, application processes, and timelines for any potential changes entirely undecided and dependent on legislative action.

Limited Policy Changes and Trump’s Stance

Mullin’s comments did not coincide with any shifts in immigration enforcement policy. He confirmed that he and President Trump have not discussed changing immigration enforcement policies, and the current approach is expected to continue. This comes after Trump’s comments in a November 8, 2026, “60 Minutes” interview, where he suggested that deportations had been “too tough” and that a deal could be worked out for immigrants who have been in the U.S. for 10 to 15 years, particularly those working in sectors like landscaping or hotels. However, Mullin clarified that this was not a discussion about specific policy changes.

Opposition and Lack of a Formal Proposal

Mullin’s remarks have drawn reactions from some conservative groups. Organizations like The Heritage Foundation and the House Freedom Caucus have voiced opposition to amnesty. Similarly, Representative Bob Onder posted a message against amnesty for undocumented immigrants. Crucially, Mullin’s statements did not present a formal DACA proposal that Congress could directly consider. The dialogue is in its early stages, with the specifics of any potential DACA deal remaining to be defined by lawmakers.

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