Staff Reports
In a surprising twist that seems to give a little nod to some solid common sense, the June job numbers have exceeded market expectations, with native-born American workers accounting for all the gains. According to a recent report, there were 543,000 fewer foreign-born workers since January, yet native-born workers increased by two million in the same timeframe. Could this be the sweet sound of the American dream waking up from a long snooze? It appears that border security measures have played a significant role in these numbers, suggesting that maybe, just maybe, preventing a flood at the borders can be a good thing for American employment.
The rising wages for native-born workers, at 4% year on year, are double the inflation rate. This is an impressive feat given that wages have been stagnating for years. It raises the question: Have the policies during the previous administration set the stage for this newfound prosperity? It’s being noted that when ordinary working folks have more cash lining their pockets, everyone wins. The return of manufacturing jobs reflects a newfound respect for blue-collar work that has long been underappreciated.
Interestingly, this job market boost isn’t happening in a vacuum. The conversation about legal versus illegal immigration continues. There is a recognition that legal immigrants have greatly contributed to American society, and solutions for the cumbersome visa and passport process are long overdue. It is not about shunning immigrants but ensuring that the process respects and amplifies the opportunities for every hardworking individual trying to achieve their piece of the American pie.
One compelling personal story comes from a legal immigrant in Nashville, Tennessee, who owns a concrete company. His journey underscores the potential of welcoming immigrants through the legal channels. Thanks to a green card issued during the Trump administration, despite pandemic-era bureaucratic hurdles, he has successfully provided jobs for Americans and contributed positively to the community. This narrative highlights the benefits of legal immigration while continuing the debate on how best to manage the border in a way that benefits everyone.
The joyous reaction from sectors like agriculture and manufacturing to this trend paints the picture of an America reconnecting with its foundational values. By emphasizing the economic contributions of citizens and legal immigrants, the narrative champions an inclusive economic policy. Those often-smug keyboard warriors at prestigious publications might sniff at such unsexy economic growth, but for millions of Americans who’ve felt sidelined, these results certainly resonate. With a hopeful eye to the future, perhaps the economy will continue its upward climb, proving that sometimes the simplest solutions are the best.
