How mass deportations could impact San Diego’s economy – NBC 7 San Diego

A Curious Turn of Events in American Immigration Policy

With the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump just around the corner, many are mulling over the mysterious particulars of his immigration strategy. Much ink has been spilled over his rather bold pledge to orchestrate mass deportations, leaving many in San Diego County, and indeed across the Golden State of California, to ponder the economic ripples. Notably, immigrants are more than just periphery characters; they remarkably form over 27% of the region’s populace.

The air is thick with proposals from Trump and his loyal ensemble. Their talk is not small, suggesting the deportation of entire families of mixed status and possibly nixing birthright citizenship. Speculation swirls that the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will become increasingly omnipresent with raids aplenty. Benjamin Prado from the American Friends Service Committee ominously remarked, "We expect a much more hostile assault on our communities."

Historical Context and Present Fears

Under the tenure of the initial Trump administration in 2016, Prado heroically marshalled community patrols in San Diego. Their purpose was to vigilantly survey ICE activities and enlighten denizens about their rights. He shared disconcerting accounts of the authorities marching into humble bakeries, bustling supermarkets, and even mammoth slaughterhouses. "The target is very clear: migrant workers," Prado lamented. His anticipation is a future teeming with increased ICE tenacity. However, he expects the communities to tenaciously stand their ground and defend their rights with even more gusto.

Economic Ramifications and Business Concerns

Kenia Zamarripa of the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce offers a sobering view on the economic repercussions. She notes that while gathering precise data on undocumented labour is tricky, the impact cannot be overstated. Whether it be agriculture, hospitality, or retail, these sectors could face a great challenge without their usual workforce, particularly heightened after the woes of COVID-19.

Potential Deportations and Their Consequences

Ms Zamarripa also expressed concerns regarding those on investor visas, who may pack their bags if deportations happen. With their departure, jobs will vanish, tax contributions will dwindle, and the economy will feel the pinch. "If they go away, those jobs go away," Zamarripa asserted. In California, nearly one in three jobs belongs to migrants, giving them a hefty slice of the economic influence, particularly in San Diego. This possible scenario paints a stark image on an already strained labour market.

The Financial Toll of Ambitious Deportations

Lurking as a thorn in the side of these grand deportation schemes is the elephantine cost. The American Immigration Council has thrown their hat in the ring, estimating a colossal price tag of at least $315 billion for a one-time, large-scale deportation drive. Even though the inauguration approaches without defined plans, the spectre of increased raids, such as those recently in Kern County, looms large.

The Words of the Administration

On Friday, South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, handpicked by Trump to spearhead the Department of Homeland Security, unfurled some areas of focus during her confirmation hearing. She vocalised that deporting criminals is the primary concern, particularly those ruffling the calm of their communities. Yet, before all else, Trump’s henchmen remain tight-lipped, as questions tossed to them about exact deportation plans have met silence.

The issue remains a quintessential conundrum, teeming with questions and speculations. Time will surely uncloak Trump’s plans, but until then, the good citizens of California and beyond must keep their ears to the ground and their eyes peeled.