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By Paula RAMON

Lifelong farmer Joe Del Bosque and others in the agricultural industry fear the impact of Donald Trump's promise to deport millions of non-citizens. Del Bosque, who grows cantaloupes and almonds in California, emphasizes the importance of immigrant workers, stating, "When they’re needed, they welcome them. When they don’t need them, they want to kick them out."

Around 44% of the 2.4 million U.S. farmworkers are undocumented, according to the Department of Labor. Economists warn that mass deportations could lead to food shortages and skyrocketing prices. "Without our people, our farms will come to a stop," said Del Bosque.

Rick Naerebout of the Idaho Dairy Producers Association highlighted the potential devastation for the dairy industry, noting that disruptions in feeding or milking cows could cause irreparable damage.

Despite claims that immigrants are "stealing" American jobs, labor contractors report little interest from domestic workers. Naerebout shared that only two out of 6,000 job openings were filled by Americans, and those workers didn’t last until harvest.

Del Bosque stressed the need for a reliable workforce to ensure a steady food supply. "If Americans value fresh fruits and vegetables in their diet, they need to consider that we have to have a reliable workforce," he said.

© AFP 2024