Rep. Yvette Clark: Trump's Immigration Policies Harm US Tourism and Economy

Impact on New York City Tourism

• 🗽 New York City, specifically Brooklyn, is highlighted as an iconic international travel destination, attracting millions annually.
• 💰 International travelers constitute 20% of NYC's visitors and 50% of its tourism spending, often staying longer and visiting other US cities.
• 📉 For the first time since COVID, international and domestic travel is decreasing, with NYC expecting over three million fewer international travelers in 2025 compared to 2024.

Climate of Fear and Hostility

• 🗣️ The harsh rhetoric and detainment of legal tourists by the current administration have created a climate of fear and hostility.
• 🌍 The United States is the only country experiencing a decline in spending from international visitors in 2025.

Economic Consequences of Declining Tourism

• 📊 In 2024, travel to the US generated $2.9 trillion in economic output, supported 15 million jobs, and produced $89 billion in state and local tax revenue.
• 📉 The administration's immigration policies are seen as contributing to the nation's deteriorating economic health.

Detrimental Immigration Policies

• 🚫 The hardened enforcement of immigration policies and their global attention are creating concern and fear among potential visitors.
• 💸 The proposed $250 visa integrity fee, on top of the existing $185 application fee, is making entry prohibitively expensive.
• 🏞️ Higher fees targeting international visitors for entry and national park access make them feel targeted.

FIFA World Cup and Future Concerns

• ⚽ The New York region will host multiple FIFA World Cup games and the final in 2025, expecting millions of international visitors.
• ⚠️ Concerns are raised about ensuring the safety of fans and tourists with an administration perceived as demonizing non-born residents.