US elections | How US election results affect immigration policies

Immigration remains an important and contentious topic in the 2024 US election. Former president Donald Trump has adopted a firm stance, aiming to deport large numbers of immigrants and refugees, whereas Vice President Kamala Harris has indicated she would uphold the Biden administration’s policies with her own adjustments.

How will President Trump affect immigration policies?

Throughout the campaign and debates, Trump has repeatedly accused Harris of supporting “open borders.” He has also wrongly claimed that immigrants are responsible for a rise in crime. His argument that immigration is “out of control” has become a main point in his campaign. One of his biggest promises is to deport millions of undocumented immigrants if he wins.

Additionally, the 78-year-old Trump has proposed ending birthright citizenship for children born to immigrants residing illegally in the US, a move that has raised concerns within various immigrant communities, including those from Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan.

Many pro-immigration groups have criticised Trump’s stance, especially his push to end birthright citizenship. They argue that this right is protected by the 14th Amendment of the US Constitution.

At a recent rally, Trump accused Harris, 60, of allowing "migrant gangs and illegal alien criminals" into the country, calling her approach to immigration “a crime against our country.”

How will immigration policies change under Kamala Harris?

On the other side, Vice President Harris, running as the Democratic candidate, has talked about reducing illegal immigration and described the current system as “broken.” She believes it needs new laws to make it work better. Rather than focusing on harsh policies, Harris says she wants to improve border security and help people seeking asylum with fair processing. She claims this will address what she calls a "broken immigration system."

Harris has also argued that Trump’s focus on punishment and conflict is a distraction from important issues like the economy and healthcare. She believes a more compassionate approach would serve the country better.

The election outcome is expected to have significant implications for US immigration policy. If Trump wins, the policies will probably get tougher, while a Harris administration would aim to introduce reforms balancing security concerns with humanitarian priorities.

(With inputs from agencies)