Delta Downs Raid Sparks Backstretch Labor Concerns Across the Horse Racing Industry
The National Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA) has formally advised racetracks nationwide to prohibit Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from entering facilities unless they present a valid judicial warrant. The guidance follows a recent large-scale immigration enforcement operation at Delta Downs Racetrack in Vinton, Louisiana, where 84 undocumented backstretch workers were detained by federal agents.
ICE Raids Trigger Industry Alarm Over Labor Stability
The Delta Downs raid sent shockwaves through the horse racing community, where immigrant workers have long formed the backbone of the backstretch labor force. These jobs—often physically demanding and low-paying—are typically filled by immigrants, many of whom reside onsite and are contracted by trainers, owners, or third-party subcontractors rather than racetracks directly.
In a written advisory, the HBPA stressed that racetrack security teams, backside gate staff, and facility managers must deny ICE entry if agents arrive without a signed search or arrest warrant issued by an Article III judge or federal magistrate.
“Entry must not be permitted based solely on verbal request or agency credentials,” the HBPA emphasized. “If a warrant is not provided, ICE personnel are to be respectfully informed that judicial authorization is required.”
The organization cited the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which protects individuals and private entities from unlawful searches and seizures, as the legal foundation for the directive.
H-2B Visas and Hiring Hurdles
Although a portion of backstretch workers are hired legally through the federal H-2B visa program, employers face steep regulatory and financial barriers, making the system difficult to navigate efficiently. With racing operations already stretched thin, many in the industry fear that increased immigration crackdowns could severely disrupt live horse racing nationwide.
Delta Downs Raid Marks New Chapter in Immigration Enforcement
According to industry officials, the Delta Downs raid marks the first large-scale ICE operation at a racetrack during President Trump’s current term. Until now, many had assumed that state-licensed venues like racetracks might be exempt from broad workplace raids seen in other sectors.
However, a recent Truth Social post by the president hinted at possible carveouts for agriculture and hospitality but made no mention of horse racing:
“Our great Farmers and people in the Hotel and Leisure business have been stating that our very aggressive policy on immigration is taking very good, long-time workers away from them… We must protect our Farmers, but get the CRIMINALS OUT OF THE USA. Changes are coming!”
ICE reported that among the 84 workers detained at Delta Downs, only two had prior criminal records.
‘Delta Was Different,’ Says NTRA President
Tom Rooney, president of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA), described the Delta raid as “unprecedented.” While ICE had previously shown up at tracks seeking specific individuals—with limited, targeted cooperation from track officials—this situation unfolded much differently.
“They said they were looking for specific people,” Rooney told the Daily Racing Form, “and then it turned into a dragnet.”
