U.S. migrant population hits record high
A Record-Breaking Increase in the Foreign-Born Population in the United States
A new report from the Center for Immigration Studies (CIS) reveals that the foreign-born population in the United States has reached a historic high, making up 15 percent of the total population. This percentage is even higher than in 1890 when migrants accounted for 14.8 percent of the population. The Census Bureau initially projected that the foreign-born population would reach 15 percent by 2033, but it has already surpassed that estimate.
Unprecedented Growth Under the Biden Administration
Since President Biden took office, the foreign-born population has grown by a staggering 4.5 million, which is greater than the populations of 25 states combined. This rapid growth is largely attributed to illegal immigration, with researchers pointing to the expiration of Title 42 and the administration’s relaxed border policies as contributing factors.
The report also highlights that 63 percent of the total increase in the foreign-born population comes from migrants from Latin America.
Under President Barack Obama, the foreign-born population grew by an average of 68,000 per month. However, under the Biden administration, that number has skyrocketed to 137,000. While legal migration still accounts for the majority, the report emphasizes that a significant portion of the recent growth is due to illegal immigration.
A Surge in Border Encounters and “Got-Aways”
Between January 2021 and July 2023, there were 7 million recorded encounters at U.S. national borders. However, the number of “got-aways,” individuals observed entering illegally but not stopped or turned back, more than doubled in 2021 compared to pre-Covid levels in 2019. Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security has released at least 2.6 million inadmissible aliens into the United States since Biden took office.
The DHS’s CBP One mobile app has played a role in this mass release, as it allows migrants seeking asylum to schedule appointments for quick parole into the country. Shockingly, only 0.31 percent of total applicants from the app were denied between January and September of this year.
New York City’s Struggle with the Migrant Crisis
New York City has been heavily impacted by the migrant crisis, with over 66,400 migrants currently in the city’s care across more than 200 shelters. The city has already spent $1.45 billion this year to provide shelter, food, and other services for migrants. Mayor Eric Adams has pleaded for federal support, but his requests have been ignored. The city is expected to spend $12 billion through 2025 to address the crisis.
Due to the financial strain caused by the crisis, Mayor Adams has made budget cuts, including a hiring freeze in the New York Police Department. The force is projected to be reduced from 33,000 to 30,000 by fiscal year 2025.
If current policies and trends continue, the Center for Immigration Studies predicts that the foreign-born population will continue to rise, reaching 58.9 million, or 17.3 percent of the total population, after 2028. This increase would include a significant number of illegal migrants.
How does the rapid influx of immigrants pose challenges and strains on various aspects of society, such as housing, healthcare, and education?
Nificant portion of this increase is due to unauthorized or illegal immigration.
Impact on the Economy and Society
The record-breaking increase in the foreign-born population has both positive and negative implications for the United States. On the positive side, immigrants have long been known for their entrepreneurial spirit and their contributions to innovation and economic growth. Many immigrants bring valuable skills and expertise that can help drive various sectors of the economy, leading to job creation and increased productivity.
Furthermore, immigrants have enriched American society and culture by bringing diverse perspectives, traditions, and experiences. They have helped shape the multicultural fabric of the United States, contributing to its vibrancy and dynamism.
However, the rapid influx of immigrants also poses challenges and strains on various aspects of society. The increased demand for housing, healthcare, and education can put pressure on already overburdened systems. Additionally, the competition for jobs, particularly in low-skilled sectors, can exacerbate unemployment and wage stagnation for certain segments of the population.
Moreover, critics argue that the lack of effective immigration policies and border control measures can pose security risks, allowing criminals and potential threats to enter the country unchecked. They argue that a balanced approach to immigration is necessary to ensure both economic benefits and national security.
Immigration has always been a contentious issue in American politics, with opposing views on its impact and the best approach to managing it. Advocates for stricter immigration policies argue for stronger border control measures and stricter enforcement of immigration laws to curb unauthorized immigration and protect national interests.
Policy Implications
The increasing foreign-born population underscores the need for comprehensive immigration reform. The United States should strive to strike a balance that acknowledges the economic and cultural contributions of immigrants while addressing concerns about economic and social impacts.
Policymakers should focus on implementing measures that enhance border security, streamline legal immigration processes, and effectively address undocumented immigration. By improving the systems and policies governing immigration, the United States can ensure a more equitable and sustainable immigration system that benefits both immigrants and the native-born population.
Furthermore, investments in education and workforce development can help facilitate the integration of immigrants into the labor market and mitigate any negative economic effects. Prioritizing language acquisition programs and providing access to education and skills training can empower immigrants to contribute to the economy and society, fostering their long-term success and integration.
In conclusion, the foreign-born population in the United States has reached a historic high, surpassing previous records. The rapid increase, particularly under the Biden administration, has significant implications for the economy, society, and national security. Finding a balanced approach to immigration policy and reform is crucial to harnessing the benefits of immigration while addressing concerns and ensuring the well-being of both immigrants and native-born Americans.
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