The United States is facing fresh turbulence across both its labour market and political landscape, as sweeping immigration reforms under President Donald Trump begin to bite.

According to new research from Barclays, the sharp decline in migrant labour—due to stricter border controls and large-scale deportations—is already slowing job growth. Current monthly job creation sits above 100,000, but could plunge to under 10,000 by late 2026 if immigration doesn’t rebound. Compounding the issue is an ageing domestic workforce, forecast to shrink by 360,000 over the next year. Analysts warn this could weigh down U.S. GDP growth to 1.4–1.6% per year. The Federal Reserve now faces a policy dilemma: managing inflation risks while avoiding a potential jobs shock.

At the same time, consumer confidence is wavering. The Conference Board’s June index fell sharply to 93.0 from 98.4—a 5.4-point decline and well below market forecasts. Concerns about job security and business conditions are deepening, suggesting the economic outlook may become more cautious heading into the 2026 election cycle.

Meanwhile, immigration protests are erupting nationwide. A week after riots and curfews in Los Angeles, demonstrations have spread to Kansas City, Minneapolis, and St. Louis. Civil rights groups have condemned recent ICE raids, describing them as disproportionately targeting Latino communities. The White House defends the actions as necessary for “restoring law and order.”

For UK observers, the unfolding picture echoes familiar debates: how to balance national security, social cohesion, and economic sustainability amid tightening borders and rising public anxiety.