In partnership with

What’s New This Week

Good morning, this week, we delve into the growing tensions shaping U.S.-Mexico relations. From Kristi Noem’s confirmation as Homeland Security Secretary to Mexico’s refusal to allow U.S. military deportation flights, the political landscape is heating up. Meanwhile, economic policies and trade shifts under Trump’s administration are creating ripple effects across industries and borders.

First time reading? Join thousands of intellectually curious readers. Sign up here.

Fuel Your Ambitions

• 40g protein, plus 27 essential vitamins & minerals

• Ready in 30 seconds – just shake, sip, go

• New customers get 15% off with code BEHUEL15

Upgrade Your Nutrition Now

The Quick Courier

Trade Winds

Economic Fallout: The True Cost of a Hostile U.S.-Mexico Relationship

The United States and Mexico share one of the most integrated and mutually beneficial trade relationships in the world. In 2022 alone, U.S. consumers purchased over $900 billion in goods from Mexico and Canada combined, with Mexico accounting for a significant portion of that figure. From fresh produce and auto parts to electronics and raw materials, Mexico is more than just a trading partner—it’s an economic pillar that supports American industries, sustains millions of jobs, and keeps consumer prices stable. However, the recent resurgence of hostile rhetoric and divisive policies, including proposed mass deportations and potential trade barriers, threatens to unravel this critical relationship, putting economic stability and shared prosperity at risk.

Power Move

Deportation’s Ripple Effect on U.S. Industries

Mass deportation policies are not just a humanitarian concern; they’re an economic disaster waiting to happen. Immigrant labor is the backbone of agriculture, construction, and hospitality—industries critical to the U.S. economy. Removing this workforce would paralyze these sectors, disrupt supply chains, and drive up costs for every American.

In agriculture, nearly half of the workforce consists of immigrant laborers, many undocumented. Farms would face unharvested crops, supply chain bottlenecks, and skyrocketing food prices. Grocery bills would rise, hitting low-income families hardest. In construction, labor shortages already plague the industry. Deportations would delay housing projects, increase costs, and worsen the housing crisis.

The hospitality sector would also suffer. Hotels, restaurants, and tourism businesses depend on immigrant workers for hard-to-fill roles. Deportations would create staffing shortages, reducing service quality and forcing higher prices or scaled-back operations.

The ripple effects are far-reaching: disrupted industries, higher consumer costs, and slower economic growth. Policymakers must prioritize pragmatic immigration solutions, such as pathways to legalization and binational agreements with Mexico, to stabilize these sectors. Collaborative immigration policies aren’t just moral imperatives—they’re economic necessities.

Mass deportations might score political points, but they’re a recipe for economic disaster. To keep America competitive, we need sustainable solutions that recognize the essential role immigrant workers play in the nation’s prosperity.

The Border Buzz

The Forgotten Workers Behind the Border

Immigrant workers are the quiet force behind some of the most essential aspects of American life. They harvest the fruits and vegetables on our tables, build the homes we live in, and keep hotels and restaurants running smoothly. Many come from Mexico, bridging the physical border and strengthening the cultural and economic ties that bind the U.S. and Mexico.

In agriculture, Mexican laborers are responsible for nearly half of the fresh produce consumed in the U.S. Without them, grocery prices would skyrocket, and food shortages would disrupt the supply chain. Yet, their contributions often go unnoticed in immigration debates.

The construction industry also relies heavily on immigrant workers, many from Mexico, to address America’s housing shortages. Deportation policies targeting these workers could delay infrastructure projects and drive up housing costs.

Beyond economics, these workers enrich American culture, bringing traditions, foods, and perspectives that make the U.S. more vibrant. Their stories are woven into the fabric of both nations, turning the border into a space of opportunity and collaboration.

As immigration discussions intensify, we must acknowledge these workers' invaluable contributions. They don’t just sustain industries; they sustain the promise of cross-border cooperation. Supporting and celebrating their role is vital for America’s future.

What You Can Do to Support Immigrant Workers:

• Advocate for Fair Policies: Support local and national policies that protect immigrant workers' rights, such as pathways to legalization, fair wages, and workplace protections.

• Support Organizations: Donate to or volunteer with organizations that provide resources, legal aid, or advocacy for immigrant communities, such as Mi Familia Vota or Justice for Migrant Women.

• Shop Consciously: Support businesses and brands that advocate for ethical treatment of workers and source products from companies that respect immigrant labor contributions.

• Raise Awareness: Share stories, articles, and posts that highlight the value of immigrant labor and their role in the U.S. economy.

• Vote with Purpose: Elect leaders who prioritize humane immigration policies and understand the importance of immigrant labor to the U.S. economy.

• Engage Locally: Connect with immigrant communities in your area through cultural events, local businesses, or community programs to better understand their contributions and challenges.

Power Poll

Join the Conversation

Thanks for reading this edition of my newsletter! I'd love to hear from you. Share your thoughts about what you think are the most critical issues that need to be addressed. Email me at [email protected] or connect with me on social media using the hashtag #Intermestic.

Stay Informed, Stay Connected!

• Subscribe to my blog at www.marcolopez.com.

• Follow me on X, LinkedIn, and Facebook for the latest news and updates.

• Share this newsletter with your network and help spread the word!

Let's keep the conversation going!