The share of unauthorized immigrants in border states is falling

The share of state populations made up of unauthorized immigrants fell in every state bordering Mexico, except Texas, between 2007 and 2016, according to a new study by the Pew Research Center.

Why it matters: While President Trump draws attention to an "invasion" of illegal immigrants and the need for a border wall, the share of unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. is falling.

By the numbers:

• Of the states with the highest percentage of unauthorized immigrants, the only one that saw an increase was Maryland.
• Unauthorized immigrants do not make up the majority share of immigrants in any state, according to Pew. They make up a quarter of the foreign-born population overall in the U.S.
• They do contribute to the economy, making up between 5 and 10% of the labor force in the five states with the largest share of unauthorized immigrants.
• And industries such as construction and agriculture tend to have the highest shares of unauthorized immigrant employees, according to the study.
• Mexicans make up about half of the national unauthorized immigrant population, but much smaller shares in states along the East Coast.