Oregon lawmakers demand end to expedited immigration hearings

Oregon’s congressional delegation has demanded that the Trump administration terminate expedited ‘mega master’ immigration hearings. In a letter addressed to Attorney General Todd Blanche and leaders of the Executive Office for Immigration Review and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, lawmakers warned that these fast-tracked proceedings in Oregon and Washington are depriving immigrants of constitutional due process.

The delegation, including Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley and several Representatives, argued that these mass hearings review hundreds of cases in a single day. They claim the policy prevents individuals from securing legal representation and receiving fair judicial review. In Oregon, the Portland Immigration Court is reportedly holding approximately two ‘mega master’ hearings each week.

Lawmakers noted that individuals with court dates originally scheduled for 2027 or 2028 are being required to appear on short notice. This sudden requirement forces immigrants to arrange immediate transportation and legal counsel. The delegation stated that these changes ‘confuse and terrify law-abiding immigrants’ and strip them of legal status while ramping up arrests and detention.