Fact Check: The progressive group Fwd.us estimated that up to 80,000 undocumented spouses or parents of military members are living in the U.S.

Fact Check: "The progressive group Fwd.us estimated that up to 80,000 undocumented spouses or parents of military members are living in the U.S."

What We Know

The claim that "up to 80,000 undocumented spouses or parents of military members are living in the U.S." comes from estimates provided by the progressive group Fwd.us. According to a press release from U.S. Congressman Salud Carbajal, recent estimates indeed project that there are as many as 80,000 undocumented spouses and parents of U.S. active duty and former service members currently residing in the United States. This figure highlights the challenges faced by military families with mixed immigration status, particularly regarding the potential for deportation and family separation.

Fwd.us has also reiterated this estimate in their publications, stating that these undocumented individuals contribute significantly to the lives of their family members who serve in the military (Fwd.us). The situation is further complicated by the fact that many military families are unaware of the legal protections available to them, leaving them in a state of uncertainty.

Analysis

The estimate of 80,000 undocumented spouses or parents of military members is supported by multiple sources, including the aforementioned press release from Congressman Carbajal and reports from Fwd.us. The reliability of these sources is bolstered by their focus on immigration issues and advocacy for military families. Fwd.us is known for its progressive stance on immigration reform and has been involved in various initiatives aimed at improving the legal status of undocumented individuals, particularly those connected to military service (Fwd.us).

However, it is essential to note that while the estimate is widely cited, it is still an estimate and may not reflect the exact number of undocumented individuals in this category. The methodology behind how these numbers are derived is not detailed in the sources, which can lead to questions about their accuracy. Nonetheless, the consistency of the estimate across multiple credible sources lends it a degree of reliability.

In contrast, other reports, such as those from the New York Times, focus on broader immigration issues and do not specifically address this estimate, which may indicate a lack of comprehensive data on this particular demographic (New York Times). Therefore, while the estimate is plausible and supported by advocacy groups, it should be understood as an approximation rather than a definitive count.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that "the progressive group Fwd.us estimated that up to 80,000 undocumented spouses or parents of military members are living in the U.S." is accurate. This estimate is corroborated by multiple credible sources, including statements from Congressman Salud Carbajal and the advocacy group Fwd.us. While the exact number may vary, the estimate reflects the significant presence of undocumented individuals within military families, highlighting the need for policy reforms to address their status.

Fact Check: The progressive group Fwd.us estimated that up to 80,000 undocumented spouses or parents of military members are living in the U.S.