A broad coalition of pro-immigration-reform groups is firmly pushing back against a so‑called “discussion document” circulated by NumbersUSA that suggests offering partial amnesty to millions of undocumented residents in exchange for reducing legal immigration by about 20%.
Advocates within the reform movement warn that such a compromise could derail gains made under the Trump administration. “If you’re on the same side, you have to be rowing in the same direction,” one activist said. Another noted that U.S. voters in the 2026 midterms are realizing benefits from migration limits—higher wages, lower housing costs, and increased investment—and cautioned, “now is not the time to capitulate.”
NumbersUSA founder Roy Beck dismissed those concerns, clarifying that the draft is simply a neutral “discussion document” produced by Braver Angels, intended to spark dialogue between reform advocates and business groups. Braver Angels, a nonpartisan organization, says the Citizens Commission on Immigration aims to help Americans reach consensus on immigration through red‑blue grassroots workshops, national roundtables, and policy recommendations.
NumbersUSA staffer Jim Robb is working with Braver Angels, though Roy Beck emphasized that this does not indicate a policy shift: “Everybody at NumbersUSA is working to reduce numbers.” Activists have taken issue with NumbersUSA’s co‑president Michael Hough, alleging he is actively promoting the draft to legislators, including Sen. Ruben Gallego and Rep. David Valadao, who supports Rep. Salazar’s amnesty bill.
Co‑president Jeremy Beck defended the organization’s stance, stating, “NumbersUSA is for lower immigration. Period.” He described the draft as part of due diligence—exploring ideas without committing—while reaffirming their focus on passing HR2, the comprehensive immigration reform bill led by Rep. Jim Jordan. According to Beck, HR2 remains the coalition’s top legislative priority, despite some GOP opposition favoring continued high immigration levels.
