Treasury Secretary Discusses Impact of Immigration Policies on U.S. Employment

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated on Tuesday that the immigration policies enacted under President Donald Trump are contributing to the return of jobs to American workers. During an interview with Fox News’ Jesse Watters, Bessent emphasized that real wage gains are anticipated as deportations continue and private-sector hiring increases.

According to Bessent, approximately 1.82 million voluntary and mandatory deportations have been reported, which he credits for the halt of what he described as ‘mass unfettered immigration.’ He presented data suggesting positive wage growth for American workers as a result.

U.S. Treasury Sec. Scott Bessent speaks to reporters outside the White House in Washington, D.C., on Nov. 5, 2025.

Bessent indicated that before April, there were consistent real wage gains for working Americans during Trump’s presidency. He anticipates a return to this trend soon. He attributed these improvements to the administration’s immigration enforcement, which he said has redirected employment opportunities to American workers and strengthened the private sector, a key factor in achieving sustained wage growth.

Bessent remarked, “What’s more important is these are private sector jobs. Government jobs can be valuable, but real wage growth stems from the private sector.” He also noted the administration’s efforts to reduce federal government size, aligning with President Trump’s aim to address the expansion during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bessent explained, “There was substantial government expansion, and like the president says, increasing government jobs would inflate the deficit and reduce productivity.” He expressed optimism about an impending productivity boom similar to the one seen in the ’90s.