Stephen Miller is now White House chief of staff, signaling a stronger focus on immigration, anti-DEI enforcement and executive action on labor and employment.
Why it matters: With Democrats controlling Congress next year, the President’s legislative agenda faces major hurdles. Expect more executive orders, agency enforcement and court battles. Miller, a key architect of the administration’s agenda, knows how to navigate all three.
Immigration: The Top Priority
Miller is expected to intensify immigration enforcement, with an H-1B compromise unlikely despite the President’s openness to narrower immigration deals.
-
Worksite enforcement: Expect more I-9 audits and penalties. Review compliance processes now.
-
Visa restrictions: H-1B and other high-skilled programs could face higher costs, delays and restrictions.
-
Workforce disruption: Changes to temporary protected status, parole and pending applications could tighten labor markets.
Anti-DEI: Enforcement Intensifies
Miller founded America First Legal, which challenged corporate DEI practices. As chief of staff, he could coordinate enforcement across agencies.
-
Greater scrutiny: The EEOC and DOJ could target fellowships, mentoring, employee resource groups and supplier diversity.
-
Contractor risks: Federal contractors face greater exposure through certification requirements and False Claims Act enforcement.
-
Political pushback: Democratic attorneys general and Congress are likely to challenge enforcement efforts.
Bottom line: Miller’s appointment suggests a more confrontational approach despite the President’s stated willingness to work with Democrats. CHROs should prepare for faster immigration and DEI enforcement, with requirements potentially shifting across agencies, courts and states.
