UH Experts Available to Discuss President's Executive Order on Immigration

President Barack Obama is preparing to announce an executive action regarding U.S. immigration policies. During a national speech scheduled for 8 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 20, the president will unveil his immigration plan, which could allow millions of undocumented immigrants to remain in the country.

UH faculty experts are available to discuss issues surrounding immigration reform and president’s strategy. This list may be updated with additional experts.

To schedule interviews with these UH professors, contact Mike Emery at memery@central.uh.edu or 713-743-8186.

IMPACT ON ADOLESCENT, FAMILIES

Geoffrey Hoffman, director of the UH Law Center’s Immigration Clinic: Hoffman can address how the president’s plan would affect deferred action of childhood arrivals in the U.S. Contact Mike Emery at 713-743-8186 to coordinate interviews with Hoffman.

Jodi Berger Cardoso, assistant professor of social work: Cardoso’s research focuses on interventions for cultural stressors in Latino immigrant populations. She can address how the president’s plan may affect immigrant parents who face deportation and separation from their children. To reach Cardoso, email her at jabergercardoso@uh.edu.

POLITICAL IMPLICATIONS OF THE CRISIS

Brandon Rottinghaus, associate professor of political science: Rottinghaus can address when and why presidents may issue unilateral orders. He has explored this topic in a recent article and a forthcoming book. Rottinghaus can be reached at 713-743-3925 or bjrottinghaus@uh.edu

“I find that presidents often issue a unilateral order in lieu of legislation, especially when Congress is less able to get legislation passed due to internal disagreement. The present case looks typical of this.  Congress may desire to pass some kind of immigration reform but cannot overcome the opposition of a few conservative members.  In these cases, presidents often ‘assist’ Congress by issuing an order to get some kind of policy movement.”

Jason Casellas, associate professor of political science: Casellas can discuss the political fallout that may arise following the president’s actions. He can be reached at jcasellas@central.uh.edu or 713-743-8714.

In a move criticized by Republicans for possibly exceeding presidential authority, President Obama’s decision to use his executive powers to exercise changes in immigration policy fulfills a promise he made to Latino civil rights groups. It remains to be seen whether this action will complicate efforts by Congress and the president to pass a comprehensive immigration reform law next year.”

Jessica A. Brown, interim director of UH Center for Immigration Research: Brown can discuss the political and economic impacts of the president’s decision. Brown is available by phone only and can be reached at 713-732-6384.