Other Related Research

The present activity from DHS appears to be no different from previous periods of mass deportation, all of which had negative economic effects.

1930s

Mexican Repatriation

Mexican Repatriation resulted in the removal of up to 1.8 million people of Mexican descent, some of them U.S.-born.
Research on this era shows employment declines for both immigrants who remained in the country and native workers.

Papers studying this era

2008–2014

This program increased collaboration between local law enforcement agencies and ICE, resulting in the deportation of roughly half a million people.
Research on this era shows employment declines for immigrants who remained in the country as well as U.S.-born workers. Research also found no evidence of wage increases as a result of the program.

Papers studying this era

2025–Present

952average ICE arrests per day, January 2025 – March 2026

Trump's mass deportation campaign resulted in an average of over 900 arrests per day, a more than 200% increases from the daily average at the end of the Biden administration.
Research thus far shows increased ICE activity has resulted in declines in employment and consumer spending, as well as marked decreases in foot traffic as immigrants and U.S.-born individuals stay home to avoid ICE.

Papers studying this era