Reno Reporter

President Donald Trump said that illegal immigration is disproportionately affecting Black and Hispanic workers by taking jobs that would otherwise go to them. This statement was made at a campaign rally in Reno, Nevada, on Oct. 11.

"The illegal migrants coming into our country are taking the jobs of American citizens," said Trump, Candidate For President of the United States, according to YouTube. "But you know what they're really taking? The jobs of Black and Hispanic workers. Black community, Hispanic community is being decimated by what's happening."

According to a document from the House Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement Subcommittee titled "The Cost of Illegal Immigration to Taxpayers," illegal immigrants create a net fiscal drain due to low levels of education. This results in low tax contributions and high use of public services like education and welfare. The testimony estimates that illegal immigrants cost U.S. taxpayers billions annually, particularly in areas such as public education and healthcare, while paying significantly less in taxes than the services they consume.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reported 52,062 total encounters in the Yuma Sector, which covers all of Nevada, throughout fiscal year 2024. CBP agents arrested 45,402 illegal aliens who have previous criminal convictions or are wanted by law enforcement. CBP has reported more than 2.7 million illegal alien encounters during Fiscal Year 2024, compared to only 646,822 in Fiscal Year 2020. The CBP’s fiscal year runs from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024.

A recent Reuters article reported that former President Trump's proposed immigration policies for a second term include reinstating the "Remain in Mexico" program, mass deportations, and using tariffs or penalties for companies hiring undocumented workers. He also intends to reinstate the COVID-era Title 42 policy, expand travel bans, and end programs like DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) and TPS (Temporary Protected Status). Additionally, Trump aims to reduce legal immigration and promote a merit-based system while implementing strict border security measures.

Trump delivered a ninety-minute speech at his rally appearance hosted at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno. He also made an appearance in Las Vegas in September. Both Vice President Harris and her running mate Minnesota Governor Tim Walz made appearances in the state last month.