Fact Check: "Between 15 to 20 percent of crop production workers are undocumented immigrants."
What We Know
The claim that "between 15 to 20 percent of crop production workers are undocumented immigrants" is supported by various sources. According to a report by Goldman Sachs, undocumented immigrants constitute approximately 15% to 20% of the workforce in industries such as crop production, food processing, and construction. This aligns with broader estimates that suggest undocumented immigrants make up about 4% to 5% of the total U.S. workforce.
Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides a more specific estimate, indicating that around 42% of crop workers are undocumented immigrants, which suggests that the percentage could be higher than the claim states (Politico). However, this USDA figure may reflect a broader category of agricultural workers rather than specifically crop production workers.
Analysis
The claim is partially substantiated by credible sources, particularly the Goldman Sachs report, which provides a range that aligns with the claim. However, the USDA's estimate of 42% for undocumented workers among crop workers suggests that the actual percentage may exceed the 15% to 20% range mentioned in the claim.
The reliability of these sources is generally high, with Goldman Sachs being a well-respected financial institution and the USDA being a federal agency. However, it is essential to note that estimates regarding undocumented workers can vary significantly based on the methodology used, the definitions of "crop production," and the geographic focus of the studies.
For instance, another source (Times of Agriculture) states that about 50% of all field and crop workers are classified as undocumented, indicating a potential discrepancy in estimates. This variability in data highlights the complexity of accurately assessing the undocumented workforce in agriculture.
Conclusion
Verdict: Unverified
While there is credible evidence to support the claim that between 15 to 20 percent of crop production workers are undocumented immigrants, the actual percentage may be higher according to other reputable sources. The variability in estimates and the lack of a definitive consensus on the exact figures lead to the conclusion that the claim remains unverified.
Sources
- Hln + artikels zijn niet meer te lezen - Proximus Forum
- White House tries to calm industry worries over migrant workers amid ...
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- What Percent Of Illegal Immigrants Work In Agriculture
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- Immigration In Agriculture: 2025 Supply Chain Impact
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