The Lie About Immigrants and America’s Debt to Them

October 17, 2025

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has dramatically increased arrests of undocumented immigrants, with a 1,100 percent rise in noncriminal immigrant detentions since 2017, targeting approximately 3,800 individuals weekly by June 2025. Despite political rhetoric claiming undocumented immigrants burden American taxpayers, data from the Cato Institute shows these immigrants contributed $96. 7 billion in taxes in 2022 alone, including $25.

Who is affected

Undocumented immigrants who are being arrested at significantly higher rates despite most having no criminal records
1.4 million lawfully present immigrants, including refugees and asylees, who lost health coverage under the 2025 tax and budget law
Workers in landscaping, caregiving, construction, and restaurant industries who are being targeted by ICE
American industries and Social Security system that benefit from immigrant labor and tax contributions
American taxpayers who are being presented with false narratives about immigrant benefits

What action is being taken

ICE is currently arresting approximately 3,800 immigrants weekly, representing a 1,100 percent increase in noncriminal immigrant detentions compared to 2017
ICE agents are actively targeting immigrants at bus stops, schools, and home improvement stores
Undocumented immigrants are continuing to pay billions in taxes ($96.7 billion in 2022) while being excluded from most benefits
Politicians like J.D. Vance and Donald Trump are perpetuating narratives about immigrants receiving benefits they don't qualify for
News organizations like NBC News and NPR are fact-checking false claims about immigrant benefits

Why it matters

The article presents data showing undocumented immigrants contribute significantly to the economy while receiving minimal benefits
The disparity between political rhetoric and economic reality affects public perception and policy
The human cost of increased ICE enforcement falls on predominantly non-violent individuals who contribute to essential industries
The targeting of immigrants affects families and communities that rely on their labor and economic contributions
The 2025 tax and budget law has expanded restrictions beyond undocumented immigrants to affect those legally present in the country
Social Security and state budgets receive substantial funding from immigrant tax contributions that exceed benefits received

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint