Donald Trump’s hardline approach to immigration, including promises for mass deportations, has sparked widespread concern across the United States. While the human rights implications are clear, economists warn that Trump’s proposals could have significant economic consequences. This week, Trump reaffirmed his plan to involve the military in deportations, which he has vowed to begin on his first day in office.
In response to Trump’s expected actions, state and local leaders are taking measures to protect immigrants. Los Angeles recently passed a sanctuary city ordinance to safeguard migrant rights, and governors in California, Massachusetts, and Illinois are considering similar steps, setting the stage for a clash between federal, state, and local authorities.
Human rights groups have raised alarms over the potential for abuse under Trump’s plan, while economists argue that it could lead to labor shortages and higher prices for goods. In industries like construction, agriculture, and hospitality, undocumented workers make up a substantial portion of the workforce. For example, undocumented workers account for 14% of the construction sector, 13% in agriculture, and 7% in hospitality. Trump’s plan could also cost nearly a trillion dollars and take up to a decade to implement.
At the same time, public opinion on immigration is shifting. Gallup polling has shown a sharp rise in the number of Americans advocating for lower immigration levels, with 55% supporting reduced immigration in 2024, up from 28% in 2020. A similar trend is emerging in Canada.
Canada Eyes Potential Migration Crisis
Canada, which shares the longest undefended border with the US, is closely monitoring the situation, particularly given the potential for a mass exodus of undocumented immigrants from the US to Canada. Experts fear this could trigger a migrant crisis at a time when Canada is already grappling with domestic opposition to higher immigration levels.
Recent polling shows that about three-quarters of Canadians want to reduce immigration until housing becomes more affordable. This growing sentiment has led the Trudeau government to scale back its immigration targets, including reducing the number of international students and temporary foreign workers. Economists caution that these cuts could slow Canada’s economic growth.
Canada Faces Difficult Choices
Trump’s mass deportation plan puts Canada in a difficult position. The Trudeau government will need to manage the logistical challenges of increased asylum claims and irregular border crossings. At the same time, it will have to maintain strong relations with Washington, a task complicated by Trump’s unpredictable approach to trade and diplomacy.
Some of Trump’s appointees, including incoming border czar Tom Homan, have already criticized Canada for its border security. Homan has warned of a “national security vulnerability” at the US-Canada border and expects “tough conversations” about security.
In response, Canada has pledged to strengthen its border controls, but there are concerns about the country’s ability to manage an influx of migrants, particularly if US deportations increase.
Uncertain Future for US-Canada Relations
The situation is unprecedented and could lead to significant shifts in both immigration policy and the broader relationship between the US and Canada. The combination of Trump’s mass deportation plan, growing anti-immigration sentiment in both countries, and the economic strain from reduced immigration could create a volatile situation.
Graeme Thompson, a senior analyst with Eurasia Group, notes that both countries have traditionally been more welcoming to immigrants compared to others, but both are now facing growing pressure to reduce immigration. Canada’s primary challenge is dealing with the rising cost of living, while the US focuses on undocumented immigrants.
The question remains: What will Canada do if Trump’s deportation plan goes forward, and how will it manage the potential fallout at the northern border? With federal elections approaching in Canada, the Trudeau government faces mounting pressure to address the issue — but so far, details on its response have been scarce.
As the situation unfolds, both Canadians and migrants are left uncertain about what lies ahead.
Related topics:
- EU Struggles with Worker Shortages Amid Rising Anti-Immigrant Sentiment
- Trump’s Immigration Plans Take Shape: Mass Detention and Sending Migrants Back to Mexico
- Industries Most Vulnerable to Trump’s Immigration Crackdown
