Senator Ron Wyden accuses US health agency of plan to deport more than 500 migrant children

Senator Ron Wyden accused the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) of preparing to deport over 500 unaccompanied migrant children on June 25, 2026. Wyden stated in a letter to HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. that the agency is developing an "unprecedented legal framework" to facilitate these deportations. He cited "credible information" indicating that HHS is targeting more than 500 children for expedited removal through a new administrative process that he claims lacks statutory authority. Wyden described this reported initiative as "deeply alarming" and urged HHS to immediately halt any screening or removal efforts related to these children. The senator, representing Oregon, expressed concern over the potential use of this new framework, which he believes is not supported by law.