Nevada's immigration landscape is complex, with 19% of residents being foreign-born and nearly 9% of the workforce lacking legal status, complicating the immigration debate amid the upcoming presidential election.

As the 2024 presidential election approaches, immigration has emerged as a central issue, highlighting stark contrasts between Donald Trump's hard-line policies and Kamala Harris's proposals for a pathway to citizenship.

The Baker Ranch exemplifies the critical role of immigrant labor in agriculture, where physical demands and harsh conditions deter local workers, highlighting the broader immigration debate.

In Las Vegas, a city that attracts around 41 million tourists annually, the immigration issue is felt acutely, with many workers fearing deportation despite their significant contributions to the economy.

While both political parties support stricter border security, there are concerns that extreme measures, such as mass deportations, could disrupt essential industries in Nevada, particularly those reliant on immigrant labor.

Peter Guzman, president of the Latin Chamber of Commerce in Nevada, emphasizes that the hospitality and construction industries could not function without immigrant labor, underscoring the economic reliance on these workers.

Despite the challenges posed by illegal immigration, Nevada's economy has benefited from the contributions of immigrants, which have fueled job growth and improved fiscal health.

Janille Baker has criticized both political parties for using immigration as a political tool rather than addressing the underlying labor needs in the economy, calling for a more pragmatic approach.

Residents express fear and uncertainty about their future due to the political climate surrounding immigration, acknowledging the vital role immigrants play in the economy while fearing potential deportations.

If mass deportations were to occur, Nevada could face job losses comparable to those experienced during the Great Recession, severely impacting industries that rely heavily on immigrant labor.

Polling indicates a majority of voters support stricter immigration enforcement, yet there is also recognition of the economic contributions of immigrants, reflecting a nuanced public opinion.

Both the Trump and Biden administrations have made changes to immigration policies affecting temporary workers, reflecting ongoing tensions and the need for a comprehensive approach to immigration reform.