Immigrant workers drive U.S. job market growth, facing challenges and polarizing politics

The U.S. job market has been heavily influenced by immigration, aiding the country's economic recovery. According to the Economic Policy Institute, around 50% of recent labor market growth came from foreign-born workers between January 2023 and January 2024. Immigrant workers also rebounded faster from the pandemic and saw significant wage gains. Despite the economic benefits, immigration remains a contentious political issue, with record numbers of migrants crossing the southern border under the Biden administration. The influx of migrants has fueled political divisions and debates over border security and immigration policy. However, research indicates that immigration has historically contributed to the U.S. economy's growth, attracting migrants seeking better opportunities in the labor market. The influx of immigrants has been a crucial factor in driving the country's economic expansion.