In deep-red Idaho, even Republicans are breaking with Trump on farm labor. Under the second Trump administration, the United States has seen mass deportations and a sharp escalation in immigration enforcement, with nearly 3 million people deported in Trump’s first year back in office.

Impact on Farmworkers

The Department of Homeland Security’s crackdown has pushed many illegal immigrants out of the country, straining American farms that rely heavily on foreign-born workers. In Idaho, 90% of dairy workers are foreign born, and many are illegal immigrants. A recent survey found that 85% of Idaho residents support a pathway to legal working status for these workers, with 56% strongly supportive and 29% somewhat supportive.

The survey also asked participants about the impact of increased presence from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on Idaho’s agricultural economy. More than half (53%) said it would harm the economy, while 19% said it would help. Residents of agriculture-dependent regions were more likely to say ICE presence would hurt the economy.

Local Support for Farmworkers

Idaho is a deeply red state, with about 60% of voters registered as Republicans, and 67% voting for Trump in 2024. However, the survey found that support for a pathway to legal working status for farmworkers cuts across party lines, with 79% of Republicans, 88% of independents, and 95% of Democrats in favor.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.