In the United States, immigration has always been a divisive topic, deeply entangled with the country’s identity. For some, immigrants symbolize opportunity and growth, but for others, they’re scapegoats for societal issues. Let’s take a closer look at some common arguments against immigration, and ask—are these arguments really about what people claim, or are they rooted in something else entirely?
If your opposition to immigration stems from a belief that immigrants are inherently dangerous, but you support widespread access to firearms with little regulation, your argument isn’t about public safety. Statistics from the Cato Institute show that undocumented immigrants are 50% less likely to commit crimes than native-born Americans. Legal immigrants are even less likely. Meanwhile, in 2022 alone, add the source that you got these numbers from firearm deaths in the U.S. reached 48,830—more than any other high-income nation. If you’re truly worried about safety, unchecked gun violence is the greater threat.
If your concern is crime, but you continue to support leaders who openly flout the law, the issue isn’t crime—it’s prejudice. Consider this: Donald Trump, who built much of his political career on anti-immigrant rhetoric, was recently convicted of civil fraud and has been guilty of 34 felony charges. If felons cannot vote, why vote for a felon? You can bet if Trump were not a white man, this election outcome would be different.
Meanwhile, a report by the American Immigration Council found that immigrants are less likely to be incarcerated than native-born citizens. Deporting hardworking individuals or denying asylum doesn’t make us safer—it’s punishing people for seeking a better life. The primary reason for immigrants crossing the border is not to commit crimes, but to reunite with their families, work for a better life, and escape from the dangers of their own country. A president is supposed to represent the American people, yet Trump, a billionaire and felon, could be the farthest away from the average American.
Opponents of immigration often claim that immigrants are a drain on the economy, citing misinformation about welfare use or job competition. However, this is demonstrably false. Studies show that immigrants contribute nearly $2 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and are vital to industries like agriculture, construction, and healthcare. Additionally, immigrant-founded companies—including big names like Google and Tesla—have created millions of jobs for Americans. The real economic drain isn’t immigrants; it’s the perpetuation of myths that keep us from investing in policies that promote inclusion and growth.
When you strip away the faulty arguments, the opposition to immigration often boils down to xenophobia—a fear or distrust of the “other.” This fear is fueled by misinformation and political rhetoric designed to divide. Immigrants don’t just enrich America culturally; they strengthen its economy, uphold its values, and breathe new life into communities.
It’s time to be honest about immigration. If we truly care about safety, crime prevention, and economic stability, we must move beyond prejudice and toward evidence-based policies. In doing so, we’ll build a country that lives up to its promise as a land of opportunity for all—not just those fortunate enough to be born here.
