Make Me Smart The migrant workforce under Trump
Feb 5, 2025
Ted Genoways, a reporter for the Food and Environment Reporting Network, sheds light on the critical role of immigrant workers in the U.S. economy, especially in meatpacking. He discusses how Trump’s deportation plans sow fear among these workers and the potential disruption to the food supply. Genoways explains the implications for food companies that exploit labor and how political policies could lead to increased food prices. The conversation also touches on U.S. policies affecting aid to Cuba, blending economic insight with compelling anecdotes.
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Immigrant Workers in the US Economy
- Undocumented workers significantly contribute to the U.S. economy, especially in construction and food services.
- Around 25% of construction workers and over half of the food industry workforce are undocumented immigrants.
Impact of Deportations on Food Supply
- Deporting a large number of immigrant workers could severely disrupt the U.S. food supply.
- Meatpacking plants, heavily reliant on immigrant labor, would likely shut down due to labor shortages.
The Swift Raids of 2006
- The 2006 Swift raids, where 1,300 meatpacking workers were arrested, significantly impacted Swift and Company.
- The company never fully recovered and was eventually sold to JBS, highlighting the potential consequences of large-scale deportations.