Ones and Tooze The Economics of Mass Deportation
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Jun 13, 2025 The podcast dives into the Trump administration's ambitious deportation goals, examining their economic ramifications. It highlights the struggles of undocumented workers in Los Angeles and the resulting societal tensions fueled by militarized law enforcement. Historical parallels to civil rights movements expose deeper issues at play while discussing the significance of military parades in shaping national identity. Additionally, the impact of divisive political rhetoric invites listeners to reflect on unity in a fractured landscape.
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Precarity of Day Labor Market
- The day labor market for undocumented workers is highly precarious, with workers bidding for jobs daily without contracts or legal protections.
- Pay can be close to minimum wage, but the extreme insecurity and danger define this labor market in the US.
Undocumented Workers' Economic Role
- About 8.3 million undocumented workers form 5% of the US workforce, deeply integrated in agriculture, construction, slaughterhouses, and restaurants.
- The term 'undocumented workers' reflects social integration despite lacking legal status, challenging the notion of illegality.
Stephen Miller's Rise Story
- Stephen Miller, once an obnoxious teenager from LA, became a key Trump advisor by harnessing right-wing media and opposing immigration reform.
- His persona as a provocative figure helped him rise to national influence within Trump’s orbit.