
Trump's Mass Deportation Plans Could Impact Millions of Mixed-Status Families
Legal lines divide their homes
Futures hang in doubt
President-elect Donald Trump's planned mass deportation operation could affect millions of mixed-status families and reshape America's immigration landscape when he takes office on January 20. The initiative targets both undocumented immigrants and those with temporary protections, raising concerns about family separations and economic disruption.
According to data from the Center for Migration Studies of New York, approximately 11 million immigrants were living in the U.S. illegally or with temporary status as of 2022, with some analysts suggesting the number has grown to 13-14 million. Of particular significance, about 10.1 million live in 'mixed-status households' with U.S. citizens or permanent residents, including 5.1 million U.S. citizen children who have at least one parent lacking legal status.
The geographic distribution of undocumented immigrants shows concentrations in key states, with California leading at 2.2 million, followed by Texas with 1.8 million, and Florida with 936,000. Notably, 44% reside in 'sanctuary' states that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
The majority of those potentially affected have established deep roots in the U.S., with 54% having lived in the country for more than 10 years. Most are of working age, with 8.7 million between 18-54 years old. Agricultural groups have expressed concern about the potential impact on the food supply chain, as estimates of undocumented farmworkers range from 283,000 to 1 million.
The planned deportation effort would also affect those with temporary protections, including 1.1 million people with Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and 535,000 'Dreamers' under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. While Trump has indicated openness to a deal protecting DACA recipients, he is expected to attempt ending most temporary protection programs.
As cities and states prepare for the incoming administration's enforcement plans, some are strengthening sanctuary policies to limit cooperation with federal authorities, setting up potential legal battles over immigration enforcement jurisdiction and federal funding.