U.S. Immigration Declines for the First Time in 50 Years as Trump Enforces Tough Policies

For the first time in over half a century, immigration to the United States has recorded a significant decline. According to a new report released by the Pew Research Center on 22 August 2025, the number of immigrants living in the U.S. fell from 53.3 million to 51.9 million between January and June this year — a decrease of nearly 1.4 million in just six months. This marks a historic shift, as immigration had been steadily increasing since the 1960s.

The report also revealed a decline in the immigrant labor force. The number of foreign-born workers dropped by about 750,000, reducing their share of the U.S. workforce from 20% to 19%. Economists warn that while this trend satisfies President Donald Trump’s voter base, it could have long-term negative consequences for the economy, particularly in industries such as agriculture, construction, healthcare, and hospitality, which depend heavily on immigrant labor.

President Donald Trump hailed the report as a “historic achievement.” Speaking at a campaign-style rally, he declared that his administration had “finally secured the border, ended decades of open-border chaos, and put American workers first.” His administration has expanded mass deportations, tightened asylum laws, and strengthened border enforcement, making U.S. immigration policies some of the toughest in modern history.

Critics, however, argue that this decline is less of a success and more of a warning sign. Human rights groups and Democratic leaders claim Trump’s policies have separated families, damaged America’s reputation as the “land of opportunity,” and weakened social diversity. Advocacy organizations report that detention centers are overcrowded, and many parents are being deported while their children remain in the U.S.

The economic impact is also becoming visible. Farmers in California report labor shortages of up to 40%, leading to billions in crop losses and rising food prices. Similarly, construction projects across the country are facing delays due to a lack of workers. Experts stress that immigrants have historically filled critical labor gaps, contributed to innovation, and driven business growth — meaning their decline could slow U.S. economic progress.

Politically, the report has major implications. Trump has built his presidency on promises of “law and order” and “protecting American jobs,” and this new data strengthens his position ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. However, as immigration numbers continue to shrink, questions are mounting about how the U.S. economy and society will adapt to this drastic change.

This historic shift in immigration highlights the growing difficulty of balancing national security, economic needs, and humanitarian values. While Trump remains firm on his hardline stance, Democrats are calling for immigration reforms — ensuring that the debate over America’s immigration future will remain at the center of U.S. politics.