Trump’s Threats to Close Mexican Border Worry Business Groups

Economic activity on both sides of the border between California and Mexico could suffer costly disruptions if President Trump goes forward with threats to close the border. In the eyes of business leaders, the president’s concerns about illegal immigration would not warrant closing the country’s southern border. The nation’s largest business lobbying group, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, reached out to the White House to express its concerns about the economic cost of a border closure.

Sen. Mitch McConnell, the Republican leader of the U.S. Senate, agreed that the economic consequences could be excessive. The dollar value of cross-border trade reaches far into the billions. He joined many other senators in voicing disapproval for closing the border.

Despite protests, the president and his administration continue to insist that the Mexican border is the scene of an illegal immigration crisis. Trump describes his threats about closing the border as a means of pressuring Congress into eliminating immigration policies that he believes encourage immigration. The president also wants Mexico to curb the flow of people at the U.S. border. According to a statement from the White House, the president is in immigration talks with Mexico.

A contentious political environment could intimidate a person with concerns about immigration authorities. An attorney might empower a person who needs to pursue goals like applying for citizenship, renewing a visa or helping a family member enter the country. During a legal consultation, a person may learn about rights and gain insights about the likelihood of succeeding with an application. An immigration attorney may accompany a person to interviews and hearings and strive to secure a positive decision.