The increase in Chinese immigrants poses an significant challenge for the United States.

Author: Marzieh Sharifi

The issue of illegal immigration has always been one of the main challenges in the American government system. It is so important that candidates for the presidential elections in this country express their positions against it. If they win the elections, the policies they present should be clear to the public regarding this challenging issue.

Why is immigration considered an election challenge?

Since 1960, the United States has been one of the most important destinations for international immigrants. Ignoring the history of the United States in immigration, there has always been the question of whether the influx of immigrants is beneficial for the country or if it poses a serious challenge. The upcoming 2024 presidential election has intensified this issue in public opinion. Now more than ever, the discussion of immigration is intertwined with issues such as the economy, global competition, internal security, and the role of this country in upholding humanitarian beliefs.^[1]

A significant number of Chinese immigrants in the United States

Although the southern borders are clearly defined, the influx of immigrants has brought racial and national diversity, which has become a serious concern for American officials. In other words, the arrival of Latinos from the southern borders is justified due to geographical proximity, with states like Texas, California, and Florida having significant Hispanic populations. The largest share of arrivals, settlements, and cultural blending occurs between the white community and Hispanics. However, what has surprised observers, analysts, and drawn the attention of security officials in this country is the issue of illegal Chinese immigration to the United States amidst the challenges and tensions in the relationship between the two countries, which are constantly increasing.^[2]

According to data from the US Department of Homeland Security, the number of individuals crossing the US border without necessary documents and holding Chinese passports has more than doubled in recent years. Nearly 60,000 Chinese immigrants have been apprehended for crossing the border illegally in the past 14 months, with almost a quarter of them in California. In comparison, the United States issued only 246,000 immigrant visas to Chinese citizens during this same period. The US visa system has been plagued by long delays since the outbreak of the coronavirus, leading many to seek alternative underground routes that are widely advertised on social media.^[3]

Implications of Chinese Immigrants for the United States

The United States has been grappling with the issue of illegal immigration for years, but the situation regarding Chinese immigrants is unique due to the relationship between the two countries. The United States views these immigrants from both an economic and security perspective.

Economically, the presence of illegal Chinese immigrants has led to an increase in the unemployment rate and a significant decrease in wages for American workers. Many Chinese immigrants are well-versed in the American labor market, leading to a loss of job opportunities for Americans. However, the US Congressional Budget Office recently reported that the work permits provided to illegal immigrants by the Department of Homeland Security have unexpectedly boosted the economy and prevented a recession in the US.

From a security standpoint, there is a deep concern among American policymakers regarding the potential for terrorist activities, involvement of mafia and gang groups, and the influence of Chinese government agents in supporting these immigrants.^[4]

The issue of immigrants and the serious confrontation between Biden and Trump

 Considering the difference between Democrats and Republicans in immigration policies, it seems that this issue will be raised as one of the scenes of serious confrontation between Biden and Trump in the election campaigns and debates in the coming months. Both candidates have addressed this issue and view it as an important component of their platform, whether to increase their own votes or decrease their opponent's.