World Immigration News

How Trump can avoid an immigration backlash

Release Date
2024-12-03
Media
UnHerd
Summary
Immigration played a key role in Donald Trump's political comeback, but as he prepares to assume the presidency again, he faces the challenge of managing the political backlash over immigration. Public opinion on immigration in the U.S. is divided: people support border control and oppose unchecked illegal immigration, but also value the idea of the U.S. as a welcoming nation and dislike harsh enforcement.

Under Joe Biden, the easing of border controls has pushed public sentiment toward stricter immigration policies. Polls show strong support for reducing immigration and deporting illegal immigrants. However, if Trump's enforcement agenda becomes too disruptive, public support could wane, as it did during his first term.

To navigate this, Trump might adopt a "low-salience" strategy, focusing on tighter border controls and interior enforcement while avoiding controversial or emotional spectacles that could alienate swing voters. Policies could include expanding restrictions on asylum seekers, ending policies that shield certain illegal immigrants from deportation, and prioritizing the deportation of criminal aliens. Additionally, reducing the use of parole policies, implementing universal E-Verify for employment, and cutting funding to sanctuary cities could also discourage illegal immigration without drawing negative attention.

The goal of this approach is to deter unauthorized migration by changing incentives, ensuring immigration enforcement credibility, and meeting public demands for border control, all while avoiding the harsh headlines that could result from more extreme measures.
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