In 1986, President Ronald Reagan signed the Immigration Reform and Control Act, a groundbreaking law that enhanced border security while providing a pathway to citizenship for nearly 2.7 million immigrants. The impact was profound: crime rates dropped by 3 to 5 percent, labor productivity and earnings surged, tax revenues increased, and consumer spending and entrepreneurship flourished. Most importantly, it reignited the vision of America as a “shining city upon a hill.”
Since then, Congress has largely failed to address immigration reform, leaving Americans frustrated by stagnation and inefficiency. To move forward, Donald Trump could collaborate with Congress to modernize the nation’s immigration system while maintaining a balance between state and federal authority—principles foundational to the American republic.
A Balanced Immigration System
Immigration policy should reflect the nation’s interests, state needs, and the aspirations of the American people. A flexible, layered approach is key, empowering states to manage their immigration requirements and set criteria tailored to local labor market demands.
A modernized system should also establish a structured pathway to citizenship for immigrants already residing in the U.S. These “Pathway Immigrants” would need to meet specific criteria, such as securing a job offer, paying administrative fees, passing a background check and citizenship test, and demonstrating English proficiency. These measures would ensure they are prepared to integrate into the workforce and contribute meaningfully to the economy.
Matching Immigration with Labor Market Needs
A reformed system could address the needs of both low-skilled and high-skilled labor markets. For instance, one state might annually request 25,000 low-skilled workers and 17,500 high-skilled workers, while another might seek 35,000 low-skilled and 5,500 high-skilled workers, each adhering to federal guidelines and adding state-specific requirements as necessary.
An online portal would serve as the cornerstone of this system, connecting prospective immigrants with job postings tailored to state and local business needs. Applicants would select jobs and commit to them before entering the U.S., with minimal fees covering administrative costs.
Pathway Immigrants would be required to reside in their sponsoring state for at least three years and retain their approved employment throughout the citizenship process. This residency requirement would promote economic stability while preventing overcrowding in specific regions. After this period, they could move to other states if desired.
Strengthening Security and Accountability
In addition to streamlining legal immigration, reform should enhance border security and establish a task force to work with local authorities on deporting undocumented immigrants who fail to meet the pathway criteria. By encouraging millions to “come out of the shadows” and participate in the formal economy, the nation would see significant economic gains, including a $40.2 billion annual increase in tax revenues and a potential $1.5 trillion boost to GDP over a decade.
A Coalition for Reform
Successful immigration reform requires building a coalition that appeals to diverse interests. The tech industry benefits from streamlined legal immigration processes, while populists gain increased border security and enforcement. Progressives achieve expanded rights and opportunities for millions living in sanctuary cities. Meanwhile, small business owners gain access to a stable workforce, and the national debt sees relief through increased tax revenue.
A Vision for America’s Future
Americans overwhelmingly support an immigration policy that welcomes hard-working, law-abiding individuals while keeping out those with harmful intentions. Simplified and focused reforms would strengthen the labor market, expand the tax base, and lay the groundwork for economic opportunity and deficit reduction.
While Trump and Reagan differ in style—Reagan’s optimism contrasts with Trump’s combative persona—they share a common goal: rational solutions for America’s working class. By adopting Reagan-like reforms and prioritizing unity and opportunity, Trump could reinvigorate the economy and restore faith in America’s future.
The Road Ahead
Trump’s first term was marked by disruption and controversy, reminiscent of the turbulence of the 1960s and 1970s. To secure a legacy of leadership, he must rise above past missteps and adopt a statesmanlike approach, embracing policies that prioritize prosperity, fairness, and unity. Immigration reform offers a chance to demonstrate this vision, bringing economic renewal and hope to the American people.