Amidst a tempest of disapproval and backlash, President Joe Biden's administration continues to forge ahead with plans to create pathways to citizenship for millions of undocumented immigrants. This decision has faced stern criticism from various quarters, with opponents decrying it as prioritization of illegal immigrants over those who seek entry through lawful means.

A recent commentary by Joe Edlow at The Heritage Foundation bluntly states that President Biden "[prioritizes] illegal aliens' applications over those who came here lawfully," expressing a sentiment echoed across several conservative platforms and political think tanks.

Critics allege the move is not only a disregard for legal immigration processes but also believe it is fraught with ulterior motives – chiefly, the accusation that leaving borders porous serves as a ploy to swell voter rolls with new citizens inclined to favor the incumbent party. "This really does represent a historic shift from Trump's anti-immigrant agenda," reports an AP News article, underscoring the stark policy divergence from the previous administration.

The Hill points to the potential political fallout, cautioning that Biden's liberal immigration policies may become a heavy burden, particularly with the phrasing, "Joe Biden's immigration avalanche is about to bury him." Further intensifying criticism, an Oversight House release lambasts Biden Administration’s policies, claiming they have "fueled the worst border crisis in U.S. history."

Detractors assert that these measures encourage illegal entry by signaling the possibility of amnesty and eventual citizenship, rather than deterring such actions with stricter enforcement and border security.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is quoted in his state's official news release, presenting a legal challenge to the administration's approach: "The Biden Administration is therefore encouraging illegal aliens to..." This reflects a deeply entrenched opposition from states like Texas, where the border crisis is most palpable.

In contrast, the White House maintains that its steps towards immigration reform are humane and necessary for migrants who are "living in and contributing to our country," aiming to address the root causes of migration and streamline legal immigration systems. However, these statements have done little to quell the discontent brewing among opponents.

As this contentious issue continues to unfold, it becomes increasingly apparent that the debate over immigration reform is far from over. With opposing sides sharply divided over the path the nation should take, the conversation on immigration is set to remain a central topic in America's public discourse leading up to future elections.

The level of disapproval stemming from policies perceived to prioritize illegal immigrants' path to citizenship over lawful entry applicants is simmering; the coming months are likely to prove consequential for the Biden administration as it navigates the turbulent waters of immigration reform.