VP JD Vance Asserts Green Card Holders Are Deportable; Comments Arrive Amid Controversy over Activist Deportations

US Vice President JD Vance recently clarified that having a green card would not guarantee permanent residency in the United States, and the government can deport green card holders if it thinks it’s necessary. His comments came amidst the ongoing debate on deporting a Columbia University student, Mahmoud Khalil, over his pro-Palestinian activism.

Vance explained that while green card holders have the right to live and work in the US, they also do not have an absolute right to remain. He went on to emphasize that if an individual is deemed for deportation by the US President or the Secretary of State, they cannot cling here on the basis of legal authority.

In reply to queries regarding deportations, Vance explained that the US may deport more individuals if it is found that it is not in the best interest of the country to keep them. He further added that although green card holders enjoy numerous rights, they are subject to US laws and can be deported for breaking those laws.

The row follows President Donald Trump’s brag about a new scheme to provide investors with a visa, the “Trump Gold Card,” under which foreign nationals would be able to acquire US citizenship if they invest USD 5 million. Green card holders, like most immigrants in America, have some privileges and responsibilities, such as paying taxes and abiding by US laws. But they cannot vote and can be deported if they participate in activities that are considered to be harmful to national security or public safety.