Farmers, ranchers, and hospitality managers felt a brief sense of relief last week after President Donald Trump temporarily halted immigration raids that had been disrupting operations and driving away foreign-born workers.
“There was finally a sense of calm,” said Rebecca Shi, executive director of the American Business Immigration Coalition.
But that calm quickly faded.
Just days later, Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin announced, “There will be no safe spaces for industries that harbor violent criminals or deliberately undermine immigration enforcement. Worksite enforcement continues to be a key pillar in protecting public safety, national security, and economic stability.”
The shift in tone has left business owners confused about the government’s stance, and according to Shi, anxiety is creeping back in.
“There’s fear and worry once more,” she said. “This isn’t how businesses can function—when their workforce is dealing with this level of stress and trauma.”
