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Concerns Rise in Texas Over Potential Mass Deportations Amid Trump’s Re-election
As President-elect Donald Trump signals intentions to follow through on his campaign promise of mass deportations during his second term, anxiety grows among Texas’ business sectors, particularly in construction, which heavily relies on undocumented labor. Stan Marek, CEO of a major construction company, warns that such policies could devastate the industry, potentially resulting in unfinished infrastructure projects and a significant labor shortage.
A report from the American Immigration Council reveals that over half a million individuals in the Texas construction sector are immigrants, with nearly 60% undocumented. Economists like Ray Perryman assert that Texas’ rapid economic growth necessitates both U.S.-born and immigrant workers to fill the void, with undocumented workers outnumbering the unemployed in the state.
As construction cranes dot Texas cities and the economy thrives, the talk of deportation raises questions about practicality. Many industry leaders ponder the implications, highlighting that substantial population declines, coupled with low birth rates, exacerbate labor shortages.
Former ICE director Tom Homan and advisor Stephen Miller’s appointments in Trump’s administration indicate a serious commitment to aggressive immigration policies. This shift stirs fear among undocumented immigrants, including Veronica Carrasco, a house painter and single mother, who contemplates the possible separation from her children if deported.
While Trump’s policies may appeal to Republican hardliners, experts suggest that implementing such drastic measures could be complex in practice. Some industry leaders like Marek propose a guest-worker program to manage labor shortages while addressing national security concerns.
As Texas prepares for a potential overhaul of immigration policies with Trump’s leadership, Governor Greg Abbott expresses readiness to support federal enforcement efforts. The situation remains fluid, with the state’s industries advocating for a balanced approach amidst looming mass deportation discussions.
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