Do immigrants really take jobs and lower wages?

This podcast episode explores the economic impact of the Mariel Boatlift in Miami and the subsequent research conducted by economists David Card and George Borjas. Card's study challenged the assumption that immigration reduces wages and increases unemployment, revealing the complex nature of the labor market. Borjas' research found that the arrival of immigrants led to a significant decline in wages for high school dropouts, sparking controversy and debates. The episode also discusses the process of reaching a consensus in immigration economics and the influence of academic work on political opinions.