Could Combating Immigration Save American Lives? 

InvestorHire | March 23, 2025
As Public Health Risks Climb, Trump’s Immigration Crackdown Gains Renewed Support

Amid rising public health concerns, immigration is facing renewed scrutiny as America battles a surge in infectious diseases not seen in decades. Former President Donald Trump, now running a high-profile campaign focused on border security and economic protectionism, has reintroduced sweeping immigration control proposals that are reigniting national debate. His team claims these measures are essential not only for public safety but also for preserving American jobs and lives.

Tuberculosis (TB) Surge Raises Alarm

The U.S. reported over 10,300 cases of tuberculosis in 2024—an 8% increase from 2023 and the highest number recorded since 2011. The CDC confirmed that a significant majority of TB cases are linked to international travel and migration, with immigrants—particularly those without proper medical screening—comprising a disproportionate share.

Whooping Cough Outbreak in NYC

New York City witnessed a 169% spike in whooping cough (pertussis) cases in 2024 alone—a nearly 500% increase from five years ago. Health experts pointed to dense, under-resourced migrant communities with low vaccination rates as a major contributor to the outbreak. The city’s overwhelmed public health system is struggling to respond.

Measles and Other Imported Illnesses

A major measles outbreak struck the U.S. in 2024 with 1,274 reported cases—the most in 25 years. While vaccine hesitancy in general played a role, federal data show that many outbreaks originated within unvaccinated immigrant enclaves, where public health outreach is often limited or resisted.

Chagas Disease: An Imported, Chronic Threat

An estimated 300,000 U.S. residents now live with Chagas disease, a parasitic infection mostly found in Latin America. Nearly all American cases are tied to immigrants from that region, exposing the critical need for improved border health screening and post-entry monitoring.

The Economic Toll of Illegal Immigration

Beyond health concerns, immigration continues to impact the American labor market. A 2024 Department of Labor report revealed that undocumented workers now occupy an estimated 7.8 million U.S. jobs, many in construction, agriculture, and services—industries historically reliant on citizen labor. Critics argue that this has contributed to wage suppression, job displacement, and rising housing strain in working-class communities.

According to data compiled by several economic research institutes, illegal immigration may cost U.S. taxpayers over $150 billion annually when factoring in public services, education, and healthcare. In areas with high migrant populations, public hospitals and emergency services report significant overload—affecting citizens' access to care.

Trump’s 2025 Plan: Stronger Borders, Health Screening, and Job Protection

Donald Trump has responded by unveiling an aggressive plan to reinstate Title 42-like measures, implement nationwide E-Verify enforcement, and expand expedited deportations. His campaign argues that these policies are necessary to stop the spread of imported diseases and reclaim American jobs.

“Our country is being flooded with sickness and crime,” Trump said during a rally in Ohio. “We are going to close the border, bring back American health, and put American workers first.”

Balancing Policy With Public Health

While immigration undeniably intersects with public health and the economy, experts stress the need for thoughtful reform. Solutions such as enhanced screening at borders, targeted vaccination outreach, and workforce protections for citizens could help balance compassion with national interest.

In summary, with the stakes rising across both health and labor sectors, addressing immigration-related risks through decisive policy may be more urgent than ever. For Trump and a growing base of Americans, that starts with stronger borders, tighter screening, and a renewed focus on putting Americans first.