Will Grant, BBC's correspondent for Mexico, Central America, and Cuba, sheds light on the dire circumstances prompting migration from these regions, while Bernd Debusmann, BBC's politics reporter in Washington DC, analyzes the political ramifications in the U.S. ahead of the election. They discuss contrasting immigration policies between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, the impact of these policies on both migrants and Americans, and how global factors like climate change affect migration trends. Their insights reveal the complex interplay between hope, politics, and the American dream.
The stark divide in immigration opinions between Republicans and Democrats showcases its pivotal role in shaping the upcoming election's political landscape.
Economic hardship and instability in Latin America drive significant migration to the U.S., emphasizing the need for humane immigration solutions.
Deep dives
Immigration as a Top Political Issue
Immigration is recognized as one of the most significant issues in the upcoming U.S. elections, particularly among Republican voters, where it consistently ranks among their top concerns. Polls indicate that a striking 82% of Republicans consider immigration a very important issue, compared to about 40% of Democrats. This divide underlines the political polarization surrounding immigration, with the Republican Party emphasizing a strong border and opposition to illegal immigration as part of their America First agenda. Voter sentiments reveal that discussions about border security and immigration policy are often among the first topics raised at political rallies, highlighting their prominence in the electoral conversation.
Factors Driving Migration from Latin America
Various factors contribute to the significant migration from Latin America, particularly from countries like Honduras, Venezuela, and Cuba. Economic hardships, gang violence, and political instability prompt individuals to seek better opportunities in the United States, resulting in a notable increase in migration attempts in recent years. For instance, many Hondurans were driven to leave due to the devastation of local economies and government corruption, while Venezuelans are fleeing extreme living conditions exacerbated by lack of basic necessities. This exodus is further complicated by the challenges of immigration policies in the U.S. and the need for dignified and legal pathways to enter the country.
Economic Impact of Immigration
Immigration plays a crucial role in the U.S. economy, with immigrants constituting a significant portion of the workforce and contributing vast sums in taxes. Estimates suggest that immigrants account for roughly 18-19% of the U.S. labor force, generating approximately $525 billion in tax revenue annually. Contrary to popular narratives that depict immigrants as a burden on resources, evidence shows they also stimulate economic growth by spending on housing, goods, and services. Moreover, data reveals that immigrant populations can positively correlate with increases in GDP and per capita income, showcasing their essential contributions to the economy.
Future Immigration Policies and Consequences
The potential outcomes of the upcoming election could radically shape U.S. immigration policy and its impact on neighboring countries. Should Donald Trump return to office, policies might include increased border security and mass deportations, which could carry profound economic implications for Latin American nations reliant on remittances from migrants. On the other hand, if Kamala Harris were elected, a more open and supportive approach may be adopted, focusing on reform and helping address the root causes of migration. The overall stance of either candidate will likely influence not only the migratory flows into the U.S. but also the socio-economic stability of countries from which these migrants originate.
How might Donald Trump or Kamala Harris try to tackle immigration to the US? People crossing the southern border has become a hot button topic in the next month’s election. Former president Donald Trump’s forceful policies have helped him motivate a base of loyal supporters. Whereas Vice-President Harris has had just weeks to convince Americans that she has a plan. What do we know about their policies, how they differ and what impact they would have?
Sumi Somaskanda speaks to our Mexico, Central America and Cuba correspondent, Will Grant. He explains why so many people are leaving the region and how the next president might impact its southern neighbours. And our politics reporter in Washington DC, Bernd Debusmann, helps us separate the facts from the headlines on one of the election's most contentious political issues.
You can listen to our other special episodes looking at the impact the US election might have around the world here:
America and... the World: https://link.chtbl.com/gqWrGSMT
America And... the war in Ukraine: https://link.chtbl.com/9pQYuDqP
America and... China: https://link.chtbl.com/CNFrjcPA
America and... Climate change: https://link.chtbl.com/zgemOWRX
The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@bbc.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480.
Producers: Richard Moran, Eleanor Sly and Mariana Hernández Carrillo
Sound engineer: Mike Regaard and Ben Andrews
Assistant editor: Sergi Forcada Freixas
Senior news editor: Sara Wadeson
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