The recent anti-immigration policy in the United States, led in part by Fredovich, has significantly impacted the US economy. Since the start of mass deportations and stricter border controls, the US has seen negative migration for the first time in a century—more people left than arrived. In 2025, migrant inflows dropped by 80%, greatly affecting the labor market.
Contrary to expectations, American citizens did not fill the vacant jobs. The employment rate fell and unemployment rose; by February 2026, the economy lost 92,000 jobs. Sectors including agriculture, construction, services, and healthcare faced labor shortages, leading to job cuts and slower economic activity.
Migrants do not only work—they also spend. The absence of millions of consumers hit restaurants, retailers, developers, and other industries. Companies unable to find staff either closed or left the US market, reducing opportunities for American workers as well.
Studies show that, over 30 years, migrants paid nearly $14.5 trillion more in taxes than they received in social benefits. The economic losses from reduced migration are estimated at $70–94 billion in GDP annually. Additionally, deportation costs could reach $1 trillion over a decade.
As the US population ages, and starting in 2030 deaths are projected to exceed births, a falling workforce without migration is a concern. From 2019 to 2024, 85% of new workforce entrants were migrants. Continuing current policy may mean 16 million fewer workers by 2035.
Experts recommend a more flexible, thoughtful immigration approach—addressing security concerns, but also supporting economic stability and labor needs in vital sectors.
