Council member Paul Von Behren of Fremont, Nebraska, recently spoke out about the challenges his community faces due to undocumented immigration. Although Fremont is located far from the U.S.-Mexico border, the town is grappling with an influx of migrants, many of whom work in the local meatpacking industry.
In an interview, Von Behren pointed to the demand for low-wage labor as a primary driver. He stated that these workers are often less educated and skilled compared to the average American worker, making them an attractive source of inexpensive labor for the town's predominantly meat-processing businesses.
Beyond the economic aspects, Von Behren also highlighted the impact on public safety. He cited at least three arrests of undocumented individuals for child rape and noted that a significant percentage of DUIs and driving without a license or insurance cases involve this population. He expressed concern about the strain on local schools and public safety resources, leading to increased taxes.
Von Behren linked rising property taxes in Fremont, which have been increasing at double the rate of income growth for 15 years and surged an additional 25% in the past five years, to the pressures created by the influx of undocumented migrants. He emphasized the difficulty in precisely quantifying the costs but pointed to housing pressures as a major contributing factor.
When asked about President-elect Trump's proposed deportation policies, Von Behren framed the issue as upholding federal law, stating that anyone residing in the country illegally, regardless of race or other factors, should be deported. He underscored that their illegal entry constitutes a violation of federal law.
Recent polls indicate a degree of support for Trump's deportation plans. A Siena College poll in New York found that a majority of respondents favor state cooperation with the Trump administration's efforts to deport undocumented immigrants.
