Trump's immigration policies deter international visitors to U.S
Donald Trump has continued his tough stance on immigration, recently stating on his social media platform that the U.S. wants “violent criminals” out of the country. This idea isn't new; he first raised it during his 2015 campaign. However, critics say the current enforcement actions are targeting more than just serious offenders. They include people who have lived in the U.S. without issues and documented individuals. One example is Jasmine Mooney from Canada, who was detained for two weeks in poor conditions with no clear reason. Reports indicate that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has also detained a German permanent resident and several European tourists. Additionally, a California couple, who had lived in the U.S. for 35 years, is now facing deportation back to Colombia. These actions raise concerns for international students and researchers who help boost the U.S. economy and knowledge base. Many now question why they should choose the U.S. when they see such uncertainty. Countries like Germany, the U.K., Finland, and Denmark have recently issued travel advisories for their citizens thinking about visiting the U.S. Some argue that people should just “follow the rules,” but the rules seem to change frequently. Tourists have been detained over suspicions of intent to work, even if they were just visiting. International students once viewed the U.S. as a welcoming place for learning, but now face visa cancellations linked to their political views. The impacts of these immigration policies could be felt across various sectors over time. Universities may struggle financially, and pharmaceutical development could slow. Communities that depend on tourism might see their economies weaken. Historically, immigration has been a significant strength for the U.S., and critics worry that current policies could damage that foundation.