US State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce addressed concerns on Tuesday following reports that the Trump administration is considering stricter social media screening for student visa applicants.
🗣️ “We take very seriously the process of vetting who it is that comes into the country,” Bruce stated, emphasizing that all visa applicants—whether students or tourists—will undergo scrutiny to ensure compliance with US laws and security norms.
🛑 Pause on New Student Visa Interviews
A directive from Secretary of State Marco Rubio, as revealed in a confidential cable obtained by Politico, ordered:
- All US embassies and consulates to halt scheduling new interviews for F, M, and J visa applicants (students and exchange visitors).
- The pause is in anticipation of a more expansive social media vetting policy, tied to counterterrorism and antisemitism-related executive orders.
⚠️ Why the Concern?
- The cable lacks specific criteria for what constitutes problematic social media activity.
- However, officials confirm it is connected to concerns about campus protests, especially those involving pro-Palestinian demonstrations or content like displaying Palestinian flags.
- The vagueness has sparked confusion and frustration among some State Department officials, who fear the guidance is politically motivated and legally murky.
🏛️ Bruce Defends the Vetting Strategy
Tammy Bruce acknowledged criticisms but said the approach is:
🗣️ “A method to ensure that visitors understand and respect US law, have no criminal intent, and contribute positively—no matter how long or short their stay.”
She also stated that full details of the vetting procedures would not be shared publicly for security reasons, but dismissed controversy over the initiative, saying:
🗣️ “It shouldn’t be controversial to know who’s coming into the country.”
🎓 University Backlash: The Harvard Case
- The Trump administration’s earlier move to bar Harvard University from enrolling international students was met with strong legal opposition.
- Harvard called the decision “retaliatory”, filed a federal lawsuit, and secured a temporary restraining order blocking the enforcement.
- The university accuses the government of using visa enforcement as a tool to suppress ideological dissent on campus.
📅 What’s Next?
- Further State Department guidance on student visa processing and social media vetting is expected soon.
- Legal battles over university rights, free speech, and immigration enforcement will likely continue.
- Students planning to study in the US this fall may face delays or new screening hurdles.