Fact Check: "80% of surveyed workers in Hidalgo County are undocumented."
What We Know
The claim that "80% of surveyed workers in Hidalgo County are undocumented" lacks substantial evidence. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts, Hidalgo County has a diverse population, but there is no specific statistic indicating that 80% of workers are undocumented. The Census Bureau provides various demographic and economic statistics, but undocumented status is not directly measured in their surveys.
Furthermore, a study conducted by the Pew Hispanic Research Center indicates that approximately 9.8% of residents in the McAllen-Edinburg-Mission metro area, which includes parts of Hidalgo County, are undocumented. This figure is significantly lower than the 80% claimed.
Additionally, the California Findings from the National Agricultural Workers report discusses agricultural workers but does not provide specific statistics for Hidalgo County, nor does it support the claim regarding undocumented workers.
Analysis
The claim appears to be exaggerated and misleading. The primary source for the claim lacks verification from credible statistical data. The U.S. Census Bureau does not provide estimates that would support such a high percentage of undocumented workers in Hidalgo County.
The Pew Hispanic Research Center's estimate of 9.8% for undocumented residents in the broader metro area suggests that the figure of 80% is not only unsupported but also implausible. The methodology of the Census Bureau, which includes a wide range of demographic data, does not align with the claim's assertion.
Moreover, the sources cited in support of the claim do not provide specific data on undocumented workers in Hidalgo County. The California Findings from the National Agricultural Workers report focuses on California and does not pertain to Hidalgo County, further undermining the reliability of the claim.
In evaluating the credibility of the sources, the U.S. Census Bureau is a reliable government source, while the Pew Hispanic Research Center is a reputable research organization. In contrast, the claim lacks a specific source that can be verified or corroborated.
Conclusion
Verdict: False
The assertion that "80% of surveyed workers in Hidalgo County are undocumented" is false. The evidence from reliable sources indicates that the percentage of undocumented workers is significantly lower than claimed, with estimates around 9.8% for the broader metro area that includes Hidalgo County. The lack of credible data supporting the claim further solidifies its inaccuracy.