Swiss voters recently went to the polls and decisively rejected a proposal to cap the country's population at 10 million by limiting immigration. This national conversation on immigration is something the United States urgently needs to emulate.
Switzerland's Immigration Debate
Switzerland has seen its population soar by more than 25% since 2000, primarily due to workers from neighboring European countries. The right-leaning Swiss People's Party advocated for restrictions, arguing that rapid growth strained housing, social programs, and national identity. However, opponents warned that curbing free movement could threaten Switzerland's relationship with the European Union, which purchases over half of Swiss exports. They also noted that many of Switzerland's iconic companies, such as Nestle, Swatch, and Novartis, were founded by immigrants.
The U.S. Immigration Challenge
The U.S. must launch its own national conversation on immigration, focusing not only on numbers but also on who is admitted. Currently, 47% of households headed by a non-citizen collect welfare benefits like food assistance or Medicaid, nearly double the rate for U.S.-born households. This high dependency is unsustainable and stems partly from outdated immigration laws that prioritize family ties over skills. The 1965 Immigration and Nationality Act should be replaced with a merit-based system, as adopted by Canada, the UK, Australia, and Singapore.
Impact of the Biden Border Surge
The open-border policies of the previous administration led to an influx of less-educated migrants. The number of newcomers with no education beyond high school more than doubled from 2019 to 2023. While most work, their low education levels result in lower wages and a permanent dependent class. Adult male immigrants now earn only 52% of what U.S.-born male workers earn, down from 62% in 2019, which also depresses wages for low-skilled Americans.
A Call for Merit Immigration Reform
The border is now closed under President Trump, demonstrating that action is possible without comprehensive legislation. It is time for a national conversation similar to Switzerland's, ensuring that immigration laws serve U.S. interests. A new Harvard/Harris poll shows that immigration is a top concern for Americans, after affordability and the economy. With political polarization softening, a slim majority of Democrats now oppose open borders. Republicans should seize this moment to push for merit-based reform, which will determine the nation's prosperity.
Betsy McCaughey is a former lieutenant-governor of New York State.
