Trump administration ties visa revocations to public safety, targeting drunk driving offenses

According to State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott, the current administration views visa revocation as a component of border security, arguing that allowing individuals who break the law to remain in the country threatens public safety. Data released for 2025 show more than 100,000 visas were cancelled, more than double the figure from the previous administration's final year, with many revocations linked to criminal activity, especially drunk-driving offenses.

Pigott referenced cases where a foreign national injured someone while driving under the influence and another who attended a mandated DUI program while intoxicated. The policy aims to deter illegal behavior by foreign visitors and residents, with revocation serving as the first step before possible deportation, depending on criminal prosecution outcomes. The administration frames this approach as an "America first" visa policy that continuously vets visa holders even after entry.