Participants engage in a discussion on immigration policy at the roundtable in Phoenix.
Phoenix recently hosted a roundtable event organized by the New Dems to address vital issues in immigration policy and border security. This gathering, led by key Democratic figures, aimed to unite business leaders and stakeholders to discuss the importance of sensible immigration reform for economic growth. Notable contributions were made regarding the impact of immigration in essential sectors like agriculture and technology, showcasing the urgent need for policy adjustment to address workforce shortages and support economic stability.
Phoenix was buzzing with excitement recently as the New Dems on the Road kicked off their very first roundtable event focused on a pivotal topic: immigration policy and border security. This event marks a significant effort by a coalition of moderate, pro-business Democrats aiming to reclaim a congressional majority by the year 2026.
The New Democrat Coalition, known as the largest ideological caucus in the U.S. House of Representatives, boasts a robust membership of 114 members as of 2025. Their agenda is clear: to forge a sensible approach to immigration that aligns with economic growth while ensuring comprehensive border security. Congressman Greg Stanton from Arizona, alongside California’s Congressman Lou Correa, has taken the initiative to spearhead this effort. They gathered business leaders and various stakeholders in immigration to discuss pressing concerns and solutions during the roundtable.
This event wasn’t just about politics; it was a melting pot of voices from numerous organizations across industries. For instance, a representative from Arizona Leading Age shed light on a critical issue: nearly 40% of the workforce in direct care positions consists of immigrants. This staggering statistic comes at a time when the sector is facing a 20% vacancy rate in long-term care jobs. The need for policy reform that supports and retains this workforce is evident and urgent.
The Arizona Interagency Farmworkers Coalition also made a strong impression, noting that the agricultural industry contributes a staggering $25 billion annually to the state’s economy. They are advocating for immigration reform that would provide not just a right to work but also a potential pathway to citizenship, thus addressing labor shortages that have been hindering growth in this vital sector.
The local Hispanic Chamber of Commerce highlighted three pressing issues for small businesses: crippling workforce shortages, safety concerns around deportation threats, and the lingering effects of pending tariffs on supply chains. This underscored the sentiment that a clear immigration policy is not just an ethical obligation but a necessity for economic stability and growth.
Congressman Stanton reflected on the changes seen in border crossings under the Biden administration, with a noted drop following executive actions aimed at reform. However, he admitted that the response felt a bit late to the crisis and acknowledged the confusion surrounding Biden’s asylum policy. Stanton indicated that the situation had previously been chaotic, underlining the urgent need for what he describes as a “smart immigration policy”. He even suggested the possibility of military support to bolster border security.
Furthermore, Stanton voiced concern over the extreme rhetoric emerging from some Republican circles regarding immigration. He cautioned that a reluctance to support more inclusive legal immigration policies could have detrimental effects on the economy, emphasizing the need for balanced dialogue in Washington.
Congressman Correa chimed in on the discussion by pointing out that true border security isn’t solely about erecting physical barriers. He recognized that a significant portion of the workforce in agriculture and technology—two cornerstone industries in both Arizona and California—comprises undocumented immigrants. These workers are essential not just for their labor but for the ongoing innovation that drives America’s economy.
Correa passionately argued that immigration is fundamental to America’s strength and future potential, especially when considering the contributions that visa holders bring to innovation and research fields. He voiced apprehension over the rollback of policies from the Trump administration that had adversely affected immigrant contributions to the economy.
As the roundtable concluded, it was clear that immigration reform is viewed as essential for the continued growth of the American economy. This roundtable served as just the first step in a series of planned events by the New Dems on the Road, with the optimistic goal of fostering conversation, awareness, and actionable policies that benefit both immigrants and the economic landscape.
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