Fact Check: Immigrants can be affected by changes in deportation policies.

Fact Check: "Immigrants can be affected by changes in deportation policies."

What We Know

Changes in deportation policies have significant implications for immigrant communities, particularly among Latino immigrants. A recent survey conducted by a team of researchers found that over half (53%) of Latino immigrants reported worrying that a family member or close friend could be deported due to shifts in political and policy climates. Furthermore, nearly one in five (19%) expressed that they worry about this "a great deal and all the time" (Brookings).

The survey also highlighted behavioral changes among immigrants in response to the threat of deportation. For instance, 16% of Latino immigrants reported avoiding contact with police due to fears of deportation, and 10% avoided interactions with their children’s schools (Brookings). This indicates that changes in deportation policies can create a climate of fear that affects daily life and decision-making among immigrant populations.

Analysis

The evidence presented in the survey from the Latino Immigrant National Attitude Survey (LINAS) is robust, with a sample size of 1,000 Latino immigrants, ensuring a representative demographic distribution (Brookings). The survey was conducted by a credible team of scholars specializing in immigration policy, which adds to the reliability of the findings.

Moreover, the recent executive order titled "Protecting The American People Against Invasion" emphasizes a strict enforcement of immigration laws, which aligns with the findings that deportation policies can create a chilling effect on immigrant communities (White House). This executive order revokes previous policies aimed at more lenient immigration enforcement, suggesting a shift towards harsher measures that could further exacerbate fears among immigrants.

However, it is essential to consider potential biases in the sources. The Brookings Institution is generally regarded as a reputable think tank, but it may have a policy orientation that advocates for immigrant rights. Conversely, the White House source reflects the administration's stance, which may be biased towards stricter immigration enforcement. Both perspectives provide valuable insights into how changes in deportation policies can affect immigrant populations.

Conclusion

The claim that "immigrants can be affected by changes in deportation policies" is True. The evidence from the LINAS survey demonstrates that changes in deportation policies lead to increased fear and behavioral changes among immigrant communities. The findings are supported by credible research and align with recent policy shifts that emphasize stricter enforcement of immigration laws, further validating the claim.

Sources

1. The impact of deportation policy changes on Latino immigrant communities
2. Protecting The American People Against Invasion
3. Key findings about U.S. immigrants | Pew Research Center
4. A Guide to Immigration Policy Changes in 2025
5. Immigrants in America: Key Charts and Facts - Pew Research Center
6. US immigrant population in 2023 saw largest increase since 2000
7. Project 2025: What's At Stake for Immigrants' Rights
8. Americans’ Views of Deportations - Pew Research Center