As Donald Trump begins his second term, his plans to tighten immigration laws are sparking debate. But one thing remains clear: America needs immigrants. According to Binyamin Appelbaum, immigrants are the country’s “rocket fuel,” driving both cultural richness and economic growth. Appelbaum, who has spent the past year digging into immigration issues, points out that while the U.S. needs better enforcement of its borders, cutting back on immigration would be a huge mistake. Immigrants bring creativity, ambition, and resources to the table. They’re the kind of people willing to take risks and make bold moves—qualities that have always fueled America’s success. It’s worth remembering that most Americans are either immigrants themselves or descendants of immigrants. This shared history highlights how deeply intertwined immigration is with the nation’s identity. Appelbaum argues that instead of reducing immigration, the U.S. should focus on updating its policies to better align with its needs. The debate isn’t just about numbers—it’s about the kind of country America wants to be. Immigrants have long been a driving force behind innovation and cultural vibrancy. As Trump pushes for stricter measures, the question remains: Can America afford to lose its rocket fuel? For more insights, check out the full episode of *The Opinions* podcast, available on platforms like Apple, Spotify, and YouTube. ---