I think that it is time that the so-called immigration bill of 2006 should just die now. The senate version is unworkable in regard to the so-called "guest workers" and the house version goes just a bit too far in changing illegal immigration from a misdemenor to a felony.
So, what to do?
For one thing, I think that President Bush needs to stop emphasizing the "guest worker" aspect of immigration reform and talk up the security angle. Building a strong, real fence along the US-Mexican boarder is not a bad thing. Changing the way one who comes to this country illegally from a misdemenor to a felony is bad. Inceasing the Border Patrol and giving them the tools to enforce the law is good. "Catch and Release" is bad. Deportation is good.
If the president really believes that a "guest worker" program and eventual path to citizenship are good things, which is good in the long run, he must talk what I mentioned above first and foremost so as to convince the majority of the voting public that he is serious about border control and enforcement.
Also, Mr. Bush must take the lead if there is a bill to be passed this year.
Personally, I would like to see those who have been in the US longer than ten years get a pathway to citizenship. These are people who have real ties to the US and would under the right circumstances be proud American citizens. Those here less than ten years can be sent on the green "La Migra" buses right back to the border and never be given a chance to reenter.
Mr. President, to get the more "compassionate" side of immigration reform, you must make clear to the American and Mexican people that coming here illegally is not rewarded and is something that, in time of war that we are in against terrorism and terrorists, a serious matter that will be dealt with reponsibly and with compassion that the US has always shown.
The wall now, guest worker and pathway to citizenship later.
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