Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Trump's Policies Spark Labor Shortage in California

7/31/2025

50 4

Summary

Story summary

California's labor market is feeling the pressure from Trump's immigration policies, as deportations have created a staggering shortage of workers in agriculture and construction. With over 1 million foreign-born laborers lost, job growth is stalling. Meanwhile, international students are facing heightened scrutiny, threatening the future of higher education in the U.S.

History

Historical Context

The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 transformed U.S. immigration policy, increasing foreign-born labor, particularly in California, which had over 2.5 million foreign-born workers by 2019. However, subsequent policies under President Trump reversed this trend, resulting in a loss of over 1 million foreign-born laborers, impacting economic growth and the diversity of higher education in the state.

1 of 2

Story summary

California's labor market is feeling the pressure from Trump's immigration policies, as deportations have created a staggering shortage of workers in agriculture and construction. With over 1 million foreign-born laborers lost, job growth is stalling. Meanwhile, international students are facing heightened scrutiny, threatening the future of higher education in the U.S.

1 / 2