In the latest episode of The Excerpt podcast, USA TODAY National Correspondent Chris Kenning discusses how refugees and advocates are preparing for a potential second term for President-elect Donald Trump. Protests are expected this weekend leading up to Trump’s Monday inauguration. Progress is being made on fires in the Los Angeles area, but California wildfires are becoming larger and more destructive overall. Additionally, USA TODAY TV Reporter Erin Jensen shares her quest to find Mr. Right and invites listeners to nominate themselves or someone they know for a chance to win a dream date with her. To listen to the podcast, click play on the player below and follow along with the edited transcript for clarity. Stay updated on True crime, in-depth interviews, and more USA TODAY podcasts.
Good morning! This is Taylor Wilson on Saturday, January 18th, 2025, bringing you The Excerpt. Today, we delve into the future of refugees in a possible second Trump term, anticipate weekend protests before the inauguration, and hear about a reporter’s search for love.
– Refugee communities and organizations are bracing themselves for the impact of another Donald Trump presidency. I spoke with Chris Kenning from USA TODAY about the uncertainty they face.
Chris Kenning sheds light on Trump’s stance on the US refugee program, which has been framed as a security risk. Trump’s previous actions during his first term saw restrictions on refugee admissions and travel bans, which severely affected resettlement efforts. The current concern is whether Trump’s campaign promises will translate into policy and jeopardize the progress made under the Biden administration.
– Advocates are preparing for the worst as they await potential changes under a second Trump term. Their efforts include finalizing resettlements, mobilizing volunteers, and securing additional funding. They emphasize the distinction between refugee resettlement, which involves legal and vetted immigrants fleeing persecution, and other immigration issues like asylum seekers or unauthorized border crossings.
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After being approved, refugees must apply overseas and undergo security checks conducted by law enforcement, US Intelligence, medical screenings, and interviews, a process that can take years.
Taylor Wilson: Chris, you recently spoke with a person who works with refugees, who mentioned that when the US reduces its involvement, other countries may use it as a reason to close their borders to refugees. Can you elaborate on that point?
Chris Kenning: Absolutely. Currently, the United States is the leading resettlement destination globally. Since the establishment of the Refugee Act in 1980, over 3 million refugees have been resettled in the US. In the fiscal year 2023, these refugees came from countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Syria, Afghanistan, and Myanmar, all of which are experiencing conflict and crises. Despite this, the global number of refugees has risen to nearly 44 million. Simultaneously, there is a growing anti-refugee sentiment in various countries, including Europe. Concerns have been raised about costs and other factors. Advocates fear that a US pullback could provide other countries with an excuse to also close their borders to refugees.
Taylor Wilson: Chris, are there concerns about the costs associated with bringing in large numbers of refugees? What do the statistics show regarding how refugees contribute compared to their costs?
Chris Kenning: During the Biden administration, funding for the program was significantly increased following major cuts. The costs encompass the vetting and processing of refugees. Upon arrival in the US, approved refugees receive support from a network of resettlement agencies and affiliates to find housing, access healthcare, secure employment, and transition to self-sufficiency. While there are objections from some quarters, a federal study revealed that over a 15-year period, refugees contributed $123 billion more than their costs in government expenditures. Some individuals advocate for granting states the authority to decline resettlements; a bill was introduced in Congress last year to facilitate this, which is being closely monitored.
Taylor Wilson: Chris, it would be insightful to hear the perspective from the refugees themselves. Could you share some of the concerns and hopes expressed by the refugees you spoke with?
Chris Kenning: Refugees have expressed worries about potential delays or halts in their long-awaited resettlements or reunifications. One individual I interviewed, Kashidi Sangura, currently residing in Arkansas, fled violence in the DRC years ago and spent an extended period in a Tanzanian refugee camp. During the turmoil, she was separated from her two sons, and despite years of uncertainty, she later discovered they were alive and in their early 20s. She has been working to reunite with them through the program but is anxious about potential changes with the new administration taking shape. While the future remains uncertain, refugees may face challenges as the new administration pursues mass deportations, a promise that has been made.
Taylor Wilson: Thank you, Chris Kenning, a national correspondent with USA TODAY, for your valuable insights. We
It is the final weekend before President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration, and protests are anticipated. The largest of these, the People’s March, originates from the 2017 Women’s March, which saw millions of protesters expressing their discontent over Hillary Clinton’s loss and Trump’s history of misogynistic remarks and allegations of sexual abuse. While turnout is anticipated to be lower this time, the march will commence from three different locations in Washington at 10:00 AM today, each focusing on different issues such as immigration, abortion, birth control, and climate change. The three groups will reconvene at the Lincoln Memorial for a rally.
On Monday, both the inauguration day and Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Reverend Al Sharpton’s civil rights organization, the National Action Network, will hold a march in honor of Dr. King. Additionally, the A.N.S.W.E.R. coalition is urging people to rally in around 80 cities nationwide on Monday to oppose what they consider Trump’s extreme right-wing agenda.
Conservatives will also be hosting an event in Washington over the weekend, with a Trump victory rally scheduled for 3:00 PM tomorrow at the Capital One Arena. Separately, the annual anti-abortion rights March for Life is set to take place on Friday, January 24th in Washington.
Due to severe cold, Monday’s inauguration ceremony has been moved indoors, marking the first time since Ronald Reagan’s second inauguration in 1985.
In other news, the recent wildfires in the Los Angeles area have slightly subsided with calmer winds and cooler temperatures, assisting firefighting efforts as search teams continue to look for missing individuals. However, evacuees are advised to wait before returning to their homes until hazardous materials and search and rescue operations have been completed. Though the fire conditions have improved, officials caution about other dangers, including toxic waste, and the likelihood of high winds returning next week.
California wildfires, such as the Palisades and Eaton fires, are becoming more extensive and devastating. Data from the State’s Department of Forestry and Fire Protection reveals that the yearly average of acres burned by wildfires in California has nearly doubled since 2014. Notably, all of the state’s nine largest fires since 2017 have occurred. For further insights into these trends, check out the link provided in today’s show notes.
Journalist Erin Jensen from USA TODAY TV is embarking on a quest to find an extraordinary valentine across the nation. In an exclusive interview on The Excerpt, Erin discusses her inspiration behind the project and its purpose, drawing parallels to a popular romantic comedy, Sleepless in Seattle.
When friends ask me if I’ve found my perfect match, I often hear responses like, “I don’t know anyone suitable for you” or “Everyone I know is already in a relationship.” Feeling stuck, I decided to think creatively and seek a way out of this predicament. With the support of my amazing editor at USA TODAY, we initiated a nationwide search for my Valentine’s Day date.
We are reaching out to outstanding men who may be interested in applying or to those who know exceptional men. Whether you’re a sister, a mother, or simply aware of a great guy at the gym, we encourage you to nominate them. The ultimate goal is to have a memorable Valentine’s date in New York City.
I’m thrilled about this opportunity and eager to meet some wonderful gentlemen. For those curious about me, I want you to know that I’m a fun-loving, self-assured individual. This search isn’t born out of desperation; rather, it’s an optimistic endeavor to connect with like-minded individuals.
When it comes to what I’m seeking in a potential partner, I do hope to have children and value shared interests. Most importantly, I want someone who enjoys good food and is up for brunch dates or spontaneous adventures. Geographical limitations don’t constrain my search, as I’m open to relocating for love.
While I’m mindful of the challenges accompanying public romances, I believe in embracing the journey with hope and understanding that life’s uncertainties may lead to unexpected outcomes. I remain optimistic and look forward to the possibilities that lie ahead.
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Eager to witness the unfolding path ahead, we extend our gratitude to those joining us for an engaging discussion. Erin Jensen expresses her appreciation, and Taylor Wilson elaborates on the nomination process, either self-nomination or recommending someone, in today’s episode notes. Alongside a brief questionnaire, a photo upload, and yes, the inclusion of a short video are essential requirements. The application window remains open until January 27th.
Speculation arises as to whether 2025 will mark the rise of cryptocurrency as a dominant global currency. The potential influence of President-elect Donald Trump in this arena is contemplated, with Laura Shin shedding light on his evolving stance. Trump, who self-proclaims as the ‘first crypto president,’ showcases a notable shift from his prior administration.
Renowned crypto journalist Laura Shin is set to grace tomorrow’s episode of The Excerpt with insights into the future trajectory of cryptocurrency. Tune in at 5:00 AM to catch the episode live on this platform.
A heartfelt thank you to our devoted listeners from The Excerpt team. Don’t miss out on the latest episodes, available on various podcast platforms. For smart speaker users, simply request The Excerpt for instant access.
This has been an exclusive update from USA TODAY: Refugees brace for a second Trump presidency. Stay informed and engaged with The Excerpt. Taylor Wilson signing off, and we look forward to bringing you more captivating content next Monday.
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