US Immigration Policy Under Trump
Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde appealed to President Donald Trump to show compassion towards immigrants, following his signing of several executive orders on immigration policies.
Key Immigration Policies Introduced
- Ending birthright citizenship, which grants automatic citizenship to children born in the US to non-citizens.
- Suspending the Refugee Admissions programme.
- Emphasizing the construction of a wall on the Mexican border, a policy from Trump's previous term.
Impact and Concerns
- These measures threaten millions, including those fleeing economic hardship and military conflict.
- The US labor force, comprising over 18% of foreign-born workers, could face significant losses.
- A joint study estimates a potential $30 to $110 billion reduction in US GDP growth by 2025 due to reduced immigration.
- Concerns over the US's leadership in innovation, particularly in technology and biomedical research, where immigrants play a crucial role.
Legal and Constitutional Challenges
- Logistical challenges include securing borders and managing overcrowded immigration detention centers.
- Legal challenges from states against the birthright citizenship order, claiming it violates constitutional rights.
Global and National Implications
- Monitoring by countries like India, where Indian-Americans make up 1.47% of the US population.
- Impact on 20,407 undocumented Indians, with many facing deportation or detention.
- Potential vulnerability for Indian workers, particularly those with H-1B visas.