US Farm Workers Fear Immigration Raids: New Survey 2026

A new survey reveals that US farm workers fear immigration raids under the Trump administration, with 92% reporting that enforcement actions have impacted their employment. The United Farm Workers Foundation polled 2,250 workers, many undocumented, highlighting widespread anxiety and disruption across the agricultural sector.

Immigration Raids and Their Impact on Farm Workers

The survey, released Thursday, shows that intensified immigration enforcement has created a climate of fear among farm workers. Nearly all respondents (92%) said raids and deportations have affected their jobs, while 90% worry about family separation. These fears are not unfounded, as the administration has increased workplace raids and deportation efforts.

Longtime residents are not spared: 80% of workers have been in the US for over a decade, and 41% for more than 20 years. Yet, they still face daily uncertainty. One worker, Yasmine, a DACA recipient and mother of two US citizens, said she avoids going out except for necessities, fearing she might not return home.

Everyday Consequences of Enforcement Fear

The psychological toll is severe. The survey found that 61% of workers are shopping less, and 29% are skipping medical care to avoid detection. Additionally, 17% fear forced labor in immigration detention if arrested. These behaviors not only harm workers' well-being but also affect local economies and public health.

Yasmine described how her daughter's 11th birthday went uncelebrated due to fear of going out. She has had to prepare her children for potential separation, a heartbreaking reality for many families.

Agricultural Labor Shortage and Economic Implications

With such widespread fear, the agricultural industry faces a looming labor crisis. Farms rely heavily on immigrant labor, and if workers stay home or leave, crops may rot, leading to higher food prices and reduced output. A comparison of pre-raid and post-raid conditions illustrates the severity:

This disruption could exacerbate existing labor shortages, which the American Farm Bureau estimates at over 2 million workers annually. The survey underscores the urgent need for comprehensive immigration reform that secures borders while protecting essential workers.

Key Takeaways from the Survey

• 92% of farm workers report employment impact from raids.
• 90% fear family separation, affecting mental health.
• 61% reduce shopping, hurting local economies.
• 29% skip medical care, risking public health.
• 17% fear forced labor in detention.
• Many workers are long-term US residents, with 80% here over 10 years.

FAQ

The survey paints a grim picture of life for US farm workers, but it also highlights their resilience. As Yasmine said, "We only go out when it's absolutely necessary, but we do it to survive." The question remains: will policymakers act to protect these vital workers and the nation's food supply?