Trump’s Second Term: Immigration Policies and Their Impact on Latin America

In January 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump made headlines by declaring a national emergency at the southern border, reinforcing his administration’s long-standing focus on immigration. This aggressive stance stems from his recent 2024 presidential campaign, where issues related to migration ranked as a significant concern for voters—just 15 percent identified it as the most pressing issue facing the nation, second only to inflation, according to YouGov.

A Significant Demographic

The implications of Trump’s policies extend far beyond U.S. borders, especially as they pertain to Latin America. Recent census data reveals that over half of the U.S. foreign-born population hails from this region, which amounts to nearly 24.5 million individuals. Furthermore, research by the Pew Research Center indicates that Latin Americans constitute approximately 77 percent of the estimated 11 million undocumented migrants living in the United States. Clearly, any changes in U.S. immigration policy will significantly impact the Latin American community, both in the U.S. and in their home countries.

Continuing the First Term’s Legacy

During his first term, which spanned from 2017 to 2021, Trump implemented a series of controversial policies aimed at curbing migration from Latin America. These included pressuring Latin American governments to take a more active role in deterring migration and agreeing to accept deportees from the U.S. As Trump embarks on his second term, it’s evident that he plans to resurrect and even intensify many of these policies. By doing so, he aims to project a tough image on immigration, which has been a cornerstone of his political identity.

Birthright Citizenship and the 14th Amendment

One of the most contentious issues linked to Trump’s immigration agenda is the potential re-evaluation of birthright citizenship, defined under the 14th Amendment. This amendment grants citizenship to anyone born in the U.S., regardless of their parents’ immigration status. In his second term, Trump is threatening to reinterpret this constitutional protection, fueling extensive debate about its legality and ethical implications. This move could not only impact the lives of many U.S.-born citizens but may also serve as leverage against countries that are perceived to be failing in their responsibilities to manage migration.

Punitive Measures and Diplomacy

Beyond domestic policy changes, Trump’s approach to migration is also likely to encompass international relations, particularly with Latin American nations. During his first term, he wielded the threat of punitive measures, such as cutting financial aid, to compel governments to act against migration. As part of his 2025 strategy, Trump is expected to escalate these tactics, which may include threatening economic sanctions or revoking trade benefits for countries that do not align with U.S. demands regarding the deportation of undocumented migrants.

Monitoring Trump’s Policies

Organizations and research groups, such as AS/COA Online, are keeping a close watch on these developments, aiming to provide ongoing analysis of Trump’s strategies as they unfold. By documenting the president’s initiatives, campaign promises, and the distinctions between his first and second terms, they aim to offer a comprehensive understanding of the changing landscape of U.S. immigration policy.

Through a careful examination of Trump’s renewed focus on immigration, one can better understand the implications for Latin America—a region deeply intertwined with the U.S. immigration narrative. Whether through demographic realities, legal challenges, or international relations, it’s clear that the policies crafted in the coming years will leave a lasting mark.