**Trump's Deportation Plan Could Damage U.S. Economy, Economists Warn**

In a controversial campaign promise, Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump has pledged to implement the most extensive deportation program in U.S. history if elected, claiming that immigrants, both legal and illegal, are taking jobs from Black and Hispanic Americans. However, economic experts and government data present a different story, suggesting that immigrant labor is vital to the country's economic growth and promotes job opportunities for native-born workers.

During a rally in Reading, Pennsylvania, Trump described the influx of immigrants as an "invasion," asserting they are taking jobs from Black, Hispanic, and union workers. This narrative has been sharply criticized by Democrats and Black leaders, who argue that it perpetuates a racist and insulting viewpoint of minority communities. Janiyah Thomas from Team Trump Black Media echoed Trump’s sentiment, claiming Democrats prioritize illegal immigrants over Black Americans born in the U.S.

Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as of 2023 shows that native-born Black workers predominantly occupy roles in management, financial operations, sales, and office support. Similarly, native-born Latino workers are most often found in management, office support, sales, and service occupations. In contrast, foreign-born, noncitizen workers tend to take on jobs in sectors like transportation, healthcare support, construction, and building maintenance—roles typically less favored by native workers.

Immigration has significantly contributed to U.S. population growth, with international migrants, particularly from Latin America, accounting for over two-thirds of this increase in 2023. Despite a recent decline in border crossings as of December 2023, the long-term growth trends highlight the importance of immigrant labor.

Contrary to Trump's claims, economists argue that immigrants do not displace native-born workers but rather complement them by filling essential roles that are often hard to staff. Research from labor economist Giovanni Peri indicates that immigrant labor can actually improve job prospects and wages for native-born workers due to differing language skills and job preferences.

Economist Ethan Lewis from Dartmouth College emphasized that substantial research shows immigration has a minimal negative impact on less-skilled native workers, and in some cases, it may create more job opportunities. Stan Marek, owner of a construction firm in Houston, highlighted the lack of interest among native workers in labor-intensive sectors and warned against the detrimental effects of a shrinking workforce.

Mass deportation, as proposed by Trump, would have severe economic repercussions. Giovanni Peri estimates such a program would cost up to a trillion dollars, causing a spike in prices for goods like food and housing due to the sudden loss of labor. The deportation effort would not only disrupt the labor market but significantly harm the nation's GDP.

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen also underscored the significance of immigrant labor for economic growth, dismissing the notion that immigration deprives others of employment. Instead, she asserted that immigration supports labor force expansion and is integral to the country's economic health.

In summary, Trump's deportation plan is seen by many economists as a move that could backfire economically, creating more harm than good by removing a critical segment of the workforce that sustains many industries and contributes to overall economic stability.