Johnson Says Price Tag on Trump Mass Deportation Plan Is ‘Small Investment’ to ‘Restore’ Security, Safety

House Speaker Mike Johnson has characterized the financial implications of President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed mass deportation plan as a “small investment” essential for restoring national security and public safety.

Cost Estimates and Economic Impact

The American Immigration Council estimates that deporting one million individuals annually could cost approximately $88 billion per year, totaling nearly $968 billion over a decade.

Economists caution that such large-scale deportations could disrupt key industries reliant on immigrant labor, including construction and agriculture, potentially leading to labor shortages and increased consumer prices.

Public Opinion

A Reuters/Ipsos poll from December 2024 indicates that 53% of Americans support mass deportations, reflecting a stable stance since 2017. However, only 30% agree with the use of detention camps for undocumented immigrants.

Conclusion

While Speaker Johnson emphasizes the importance of the deportation plan for national security, experts highlight significant financial costs and potential economic disruptions. The debate underscores the complex considerations surrounding immigration policy and its implementation.