Analysts say the administration’s immigration crackdown is widening from undocumented migrants and students to nearly all legal visa holders. This could leave many at risk of losing their status.
New Pew Research Centre data shows the U.S. immigrant population fell by almost 1.5 million in the first half of this year, the first net decline in decades. The total dropped to 51.9 million in June from 53.3 million in January. Researchers attribute the decline largely to stricter policies, which have led to both deportations and voluntary departures.
The White House argues that fewer immigrants ease pressure on public services and help the labour market recover. But experts warn that the long-term effects may be damaging, with labour shortages in key industries such as agriculture, healthcare and services. With the retirement of the baby boomer generation, they note, U.S. reliance on immigrant labour could actually deepen.
SANGHA KOMMUNE (SSR) 