U.S. farm industry groups are urging President-elect Donald Trump to reconsider his immigration policy, particularly the mass deportations promise, due to potential disruptions in the food supply chain. This sector relies significantly on immigrants without legal status in the United States. Despite these concerns, Trump officials, including the incoming "border czar" Tom Homan, have not indicated any exemptions for agricultural workers. The Department of Labor and Agriculture estimates that nearly half of the nation's 2 million farm workers are undocumented, alongside many in dairy and meatpacking roles.
Trump's campaign pledge to deport millions of undocumented immigrants has raised concerns about the impact on U.S. businesses and the potential for family separations. Homan has stated that while immigration enforcement will prioritize criminals and individuals with final deportation orders, no undocumented immigrant will be completely exempt from enforcement actions. He acknowledged that enforcement against businesses, including possibly the agricultural sector, "will have to happen."
The potential mass removal of farm workers could significantly affect the food supply chain and increase grocery prices, according to David Ortega, a professor at Michigan State University. The agricultural sector is concerned about the repercussions of a targeted deportation plan on farmworkers. Dave Puglia, president of Western Growers, expressed support for the administration's focus on criminals but highlighted the importance of farmworkers to the sector.
Trump's transition spokesperson, Karoline Leavitt, did not directly address these concerns but emphasized Trump's commitment to fulfilling his campaign promises. Trump has nominated Brooke Rollins as agriculture secretary, signaling the importance of the agriculture sector, which contributed $1.5 trillion to the U.S. GDP in 2023. Despite previous assurances, the Trump administration conducted raids at agricultural worksites, raising fears among farmworkers and industry stakeholders.
U.S. Representative John Duarte advocates for a clear stance from the administration that immigrant workers with a long-standing presence and no criminal record will not be targeted. The H-2A visa program, although a legal avenue for hiring labor, is deemed insufficient by many farmers due to its cost and seasonal nature. Industry groups call for expanded legal pathways for agricultural laborers to ensure a stable and affordable workforce. Despite the low risk of enforcement against farms, the fear among farmworkers remains a concern for advocates and unions.
Source: Reuters