New Jersey citizens are attuned to the real possibility that they may have to adapt to some substantial changes on the horizon, in light of President-elect Donald Trump’s agenda for comprehensive immigration reform. One significant aspect of this reform is a potential step-up on deportations that could result in shifts within both the demographic and economic landscape. As a precautionary measure, those affected are taking action, choosing to be prepared for all eventualities. Pioneering this change is an industrious North Plainfield resident, who has earned his living and supported his family both here and abroad since his arrival in 2019.
Bringing with him a promise of substantial change and profound impact, Donald Trump made clear during his campaign that an overhaul of immigration policy, including the potential deportation of undocumented immigrants, would be a key area of focus. His strong commitment towards this purpose can be seen in his initial pick for the ‘border czar’, Tom Homan, a veteran Border Patrol official with an impressive 34-years tenure.
Tom Homan, having served as the interim director of Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the opening years of Trump’s first term, brings a wealth of experience and insight to the table. His appointment, which bypasses the need for Senate confirmation, has already begun to resound with echoes of Trump’s robust vision for change. In a recent interview, Homan emphasized his and Trump’s serious commitment to this grave matter, helping put into perspective the notion that federal law supersedes state and local law.
An Ecuadorian citizen, communicating through a translator, expressed his apprehension about the rigorous approach anticipated in Trump’s plan. He called these changes ‘a radical stance,’ underscoring his worry that it could potentially lead to the dissolution of family units. What he failed to appreciate, however, is that such robust measures have stemmed from a necessity to manage unregulated immigration, rather than a personal vendetta against immigrants.
New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice, expressed doubts concerning the state’s capacity to shield immigrants from the potential tide of deportations. The organization further specified that Homan would be tasked with overseeing borders with neighboring countries and regulating our nation’s coastline along with airspace. They highlighted the state-wide influence of the proposed reform, given New Jersey’s extensive coastline and international airport presence.
An immigrant advocacy group based in Morris and Union counties have expressed their commitment to reinforce their efforts to help undocumented immigrants navigate these prospective changes. The group plans to step up on empowering them with information pertaining to their rights and feasible interactions with ICE, without substantively altering their work routine.
A recent 2022 report from the American Immigration Council shed some light on the demographic composition of New Jersey, stating that the undocumented population accounts for approximately 5% of the state’s workforce. These residents chipped in a significant $3.4 billion in taxes. A substantial $1.3 billion from this was used locally and at the state level. Furthermore, these immigrants collectively incurred expenses amounting to $10.8 billion, as per the findings of the report.
The report further revealed that New Jersey is home to over 40,000 residents living with an undocumented spouse, in addition to more than 196,000 U.S. citizen children cohabitating with at least one undocumented family member. This brings the estimated tally of undocumented immigrants residing in New Jersey to about 470,000.
The American Immigration Council’s recent report also presents an estimation of the cost associated with large-scale deportation endeavors. According to the report, deporting 1 million people per year could incur an annual expense of up to $88 billion. This expense encompasses costs related to arrest, detention, legal processing, and removal. Therefore, accomplishing Trump’s projected goal of deporting 11 million people could lead to a financial burden of $968 billion spread over a decade.
One particular citizen, a 35-year-old man employed by a landscaping and construction firm in South Plainfield, experiences the looming uncertainty personally. This man, single and without children, lives in close proximity to his father in the same apartment complex.
This South Plainfield resident shared his story of coming to the U.S with us. Fleeing harmful influences back home, he seized the opportunity for a safer life when his father asked him to join in the U.S. As he puts it, ‘I prioritized my safety and didn’t hesitate to make the move.’
Amid the ongoing waves of change, his primary concern lies not with his fate, but with the future of his father who’s amidst the citizenship process, and of other undocumented compatriots residing in the same apartment building. The fear amongst his peers is palpable, stemming from inherent limitations and the circulation of distressing storylines.
Certainly, there are challenges that come hand in hand with immigration, especially for those who are undocumented. It often involves working in the shadows, having limited social interactions due to the constant fear of being discovered. Stories circulate about parents being deported while their children are at school – fueling fear and uncertainty within these communities.
However, it’s crucial to understand that enforcement of immigration laws, including deportation, are integral to maintaining the security of a nation. While it’s essential to empathize with those affected, equally important is the recognition that regulatory frameworks and laws are put in place to safeguard the overall interests of the nation and its citizens.