What if 22 states considering immigration laws like Arizona's?
A U.S. Border Patrol vehicle drives along the fence separating the U.S. from Mexico near the town of Nogales, Sonora, Mexico. (PHOTO CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES)
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
One day we may look back on Arizona as the state that led the way when it comes to doing something about the illegal immigration crisis.
22 states are now considering immigration laws like the one passed in Arizona, according to a group called Americans for Legal Immigration.
These include another border state, Texas, along with northern states like Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan and New Jersey.
Some states - like Rhode Island and Colorado - are sending lawmakers to Arizona to figure out how to best craft their own immigration laws.
All this is happening, despite the fact that a federal judge threw out key parts of Arizona's law - including requiring police to check the immigration status of anyone stopped for another reason. That ruling is now under appeal.
Polls show a majority of Americans support Arizona's law. They want something done.
Meanwhile - there are signs that the violence from Mexico's drug wars is spilling into the U.S.
A shootout between drug traffickers and Mexican authorities in Juarez injured three police officers and left one gunman dead. Juarez is only 30 yards from the border at El Paso, Texas - and has become one of the deadliest cities in the world - more than 1,800 people have been killed there this year.
Authorities say a bullet from the shootout may have struck a building at the University of Texas. This comes less than two months after several bullets from a deadly shootout in Juarez hit the El Paso City Hall. It's no wonder Texas Governor Rick Perry keeps pleading for more National Guard troops .
Here’s my question to you: What does it say if 22 states are considering immigration legislation like Arizona’s?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Kathie writes:
When Obama denounced the Arizona law, it sent a clear message to all current/future illegals: our borders are open, come on in. The only ones that have to obey the law are the legal citizens. I hope every state adopts Arizona's law!
Mark in Oklahoma City writes:
It means that 28 other states should be prepared to welcome with open arms millions of illegals and all the problems that come with them. Hope those states have BIG budget surpluses. They're going to need them.
Jane in Hancock, Michigan writes:
Jack, If 22 other states are considering Arizona's law it is because they realize that their state budgets can no longer support all the poor of this world. Our economy speaks that truth. Violence or none, illegal immigrants, contribute to the greater issue of states going bankrupt.
George in Texas writes:
Jack, I am from El Paso and I can tell you most people at the University of Texas campus can care less. However, a lot of people from El Paso are getting fed up with the governor for making El Paso look like Iraq for a political agenda. With all the violence in Mexico, El Paso is ok and is one of the safest cities in the U.S.
Matt in Florida writes:
It means that 22 states are repeating history – particularly the nativist "know-nothing" groups that hated the Irish, the Asians, the Catholics, and so on. It's just so much simpler to do that then to go after the ones who HIRE illegal immigrants, as they own the politicians.
Marilyn in Arizona writes:
I think it means that it's time for the president to face this and give us the immigration reform we need... or he'll be suing every state and wasting more money that we don't have!
P. writes:
It says Arizona has the right idea. Simply pass a new law, and the illegals flee. If the 22 states were actually 49, we'd be well on our way to solving the illegal immigration problem, with or without Washington's help.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
There must be 22 governors in political trouble who are up for re-election.
It says there will soon be 27 states with a much bigger illegal immigration problem.
To me it says that there are a lot of people concerned about this problem and/or unhappy with our current laws. To liberals it would mean that the people in 22 states are blatant racists and/or are under the spell of Fox New, Rush Limbaugh, Glen Beck and Sean Hannity and that they need to be called names, degraded and demeaned rather than having their concerns addressed or even listened to. Liberals would say that everyone in these 22 states needs to be investigated by the Justice Department and that the problem was caused by Bush/Cheney.
Then maybe Congress and the President would be forced to enforce and enhance the immigration Federal Laws we have. One easy fix would be to now send regular military forces to the U.S. Mexican border with the same rights as the Border Patrol. Now that we are leaving Iraq why not send regular forces to the border to help slove and correct the problem.
It simply says that sometimes we Americans just aren't free thinkers...we are no different then sheep being herded. Which is ironic because the main thing that is suppose to separate we humans from animals is just that...our ability to think freely.
Jack, it says that all of the people who voted for Obama were duped by his slick teleprompter-reading skills. He promised "change" and the CHANGE he is delivering is nowhere near the "change" they were expecting.
Besides that, can you imagine being the LAST state in the country to pass the Arizona Law? Every illegal alien invader would be living in YOUR state.
AYE CARUMBA!
Jack it's like the old joke; What do you call 50 lawyers at the bottom of the ocean ? " A good start !"
David, Las Vegas
It means the American people are "fed up". There is another 10 States signed on, however the Attorney General is fighting them so they say on the News. Ours is one of those States.
I thought slavery was over ! What do you think hiring these poor illegals is ? Their own Country needs to take care of them and they should come in the front door.
Joan
MN
best thing if that happened and others would follow
Jack ,
I know that you won't choose this e-mail response to your question regarding the 22 states that are considering immigration legislation like Arizona but here goes: It is a crime that the leaders of this great country would continue to stoop so low as to slap the American CITIZENS in the face, refuse to enforce existing immigration laws on the books in favor of giving rights to illegal aliens who have invaded this country! I laugh out loud just thinking about the backlash that will come when the same ungrateful illegal aliens who disrespect our flag or the freebies given to them are granted citizenship then show their gratitude to those supporting congressional leaders by taking their jobs what a day that will be and rest assured it will come. I am still laughing at the ignorance of so many empty suits worn by both male and female congressional sellouts. as long as they keep selling out the interest of this country the easier it is for terrorist to take over. just keep fighting the hand that feeds you and continue keeping things in delusional perspective because greed, votes, and power is soon to destroy this Country. Soon the terrorist will have it all thanks to the treasonous traders who refuse to accept or respect the wishes of the Citizens of this country. have a great day.
Jack: It means that people who are unemployed or afraid they might become unemployed do not like any jobs going to illegal immigrants. Americans are taking a closer look at all the violence in Northern Mexico which is making them very fearful. Now, when the recession ends, and the unemployment rate goes down these fears will lessen. This is sad, because illegal immigrants will keep on coming to this country. Illegal aliens are a drain on our way life.
Atlanta, GA
What does it say when that way of thinking gains so much popularity is that there is still a huge problem with race in this country, and there is a scarcity mentality that cripples the minds of those who feel their (ill-gotten) wealth is at risk. Illegal immigration needs to be dealt with without the inferences to the hard-working Latin Americans breaking their backs for pennies in this country.
Hopefully it says that states are realizing that the federal government is nothing but a puppet, and a sham. If the federal government can't enforce the law, and can only pass nonsense laws like health care reform and finance reform, then the states have every right – no, duty – to nullify such acts, and protect their citizens from political elitists who are morally and intellectually bankrupt, just like the federal government they manage.
It says that a Constitutional amendment that would modify the 14th Amendment to confer US citizenship on a child born in the US only if at least one parent is a US citizen has a very good chance of passing.
Now it remains to be seen whether anyone in Congress has the cojones to actually introduce the legislation.
Hi Jack,
this would not augur well for this Land of Liberty & Freedom.
What started as whispers of racism growing into shouts & then into Arizona's infamous legislation , is now turning into a frenzied, phobic chant of intolerance & religious persecution. The very Constitution of USA seems to be threatened.
If 22 states follow suit & this atmosphere prevails we can say good bye to America as we know it.
We may well be opening our doors to forces of fascism.
It says our federal government has failed to do its job and shows no sign of actually trying to do its job so it's up to the states. We can't keep waiting for the idiots inside the Beltway to start solving problems. There's very little road left to kick all the cans down.
Obviously those states want a comprehensive law. Having 22 state laws with various stipulations would cripple any reform. As for pointing fingers, Bush and the republicans chose to do nothing since 9/11 – over 7 years so republicans do not have the "moral high ground"
It means that the majority of legal residents of this country want something done about the 12 million illegals who are draining the ediucation and medical resources of communities throughout the country. The politicians don't care they just want cheap labor from the illegals for businesses and votes from people who support illegal immigration. As long as voters keep electing incumbents, nothing is going to change. It appears that most incumbents including mc cain will be re-elected to do nothing about illegal immigration other than provide amnesty for illegals.
It says that the American people are mad as hell and aren't going to take it anymore - incumbents at both ends of the national mall beware. People who are bearing the brunt of the illegal traffic are tired of inaction to secure our homeland and weary of half steps and no clear policy statement coming from the adminsitration. It does not say that Americans are anti-immigration, or anti-immigration reform as much as the progressive idealogues would like to shame us into believing we are.
Hello Jack Cafferty and CNN friends,
It says that everyone immigrate and non-immigrate
must have their IDENTITY at ALL TIMES,
just like the 4 countries in European Union,
such as the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and France!
United States goes Europe!
Greetings,
Jurgen R. Brul
It says that 27 states are sleeping at the switch.
It says that there will be 22 different spins on immigration law to try to sort out instead of one national law; the lawyers must be drooling with visions of additional revenue.
It really means is both the Dems & Repubs in Washington need to put the special interests they support aside and actually come up with national immigration policy that includes enforcement of the law and stiff penalties for non-compliance. This shoul not be so difficult to do – unless you are actually serving the special interest lobbies instead of the people that elect you to office.
Then 22 states will have their law considered "unconstitutional"! It dosn't matter if the GObP fires up the nation, it would still be unconstitutional. So, instead encourage the GObP leders to seek a solution to the immigration issue, not just throw wood on the fire. Marlene in Mich
it says that even people that usually vote Democrate, and esp union members, are sick and tired of seeing their tax money going to support these illegal alien moochers social sevices while cheating "scab herder" employers use them to force down wages.
they are demanding that IF the US Govenment won't do anything about the problem, their state govenment needs to.
Apparently it means they don't understand the difference between what is a state's responsibility and what is a federal responsibility.
22 States doing it is 22 States telling the Democratic Party that they don't agree with the party's immigration policy. And if the Democratic Party bothered to listen to ayone other than a small number of people, they would also know that most Americans don't agree with their policy either. Illegal imiigrants break the law and should not receive the benefits of our society merely because they manage to walk across the border. Time to stop the madness.
Obama and his staff have a hidden agenda to turn this country into a third world country creating a government run country where we will only have the rich and poor. As Quale's son said, he is the worst President ever and beats out Jimmy Carter. The Democrats have always supported the poor, the black, and now the Hispanics because they want the votes and they don't have to pay for these people's benefits..
Welcome back Jack. It means in simple terms that "We the People" knows the difference between right and wrong as do some of the states whereas our Federal Government don't have a clue that breaking the law is wrong. Just look at their record, they break the law all of the time but they are above it.
we have a desperate situation where 100million extra folks came in and never left yet the billionaires from where they are from still whored the resources forcing volunteers to help in foriegn countries while the industrialist offshore conspire to buyoff 100 senators and 435 congress people...people need to go back home and appply what they learned in u.s. to help thier people wher they are from...
the problem is there are peple who sell drugs and hurt innocence who are not mexican but are illegal. we have hippocrits claiming they have a degree yet its in the 3rd world and somehow they get a pass on what a u.s. citizens would be heavily scrutinized on regarding real quality credientials...
Since the federal government refuses to enforce immigration laws already on the books the states have no choice. Republicans want cheap labor, Democrats want votes. When Obama denounced the Arizona law that sent a clear message to all current/future illegals–out borders are open, come on in and the only ones that have to obey the law are the legal citizens. I hope every state adopts Arizona's law!
It doesn't matter, since in the end, the Federal Courts are going to settle this, giving great deference to whatever the Federal Government decides. Nothing is going to happen this year, time is too short. If Latino voters stay home, they will likely make the situation worse for undocumented workers – and if they support the Democrats even though they have not delivered, the Democrats may never deliver.
The recent flap over birthright citizenship did not help. Indeed, I believe it was raised to make sure nothing happens this year – since any reform at all would damage the ability of agribusiness (both factory and field) to keep workers in the shadows in despotic working conditions. Of course, that's not good if you like your eggs over easy.
It means that those of us who are legal citizens and legal aliens will be a whole lot more secure. Right now we are like a bank with the vault door open and no cops anywhere in town.
Great news...............BUT
Too bad our elected officials don`t have a clue
We all get what we deserve.............
Keep up the good work Jack, I am beginning to like your slot!!
It speaks loud and clear that their constituents are giving them an earful on the subject and they want something done.
It meams that the federal government has failed at their job. It also means that the children of this country may wake up one morning with out a country that their anscestor died for their future.
Jack,it says citizens are finally fed up with the Federal Government's lack of enforcement of the immigration laws, and are determined to do something about it.It is time to get tough and quit playing politics,these people are not undocumented workers,they are illegal aliens that need to be addressed with the full authority of the law!!!!
If the federal govt. won't do its job. Somebody has to.
Jack,
That is a very good start, the legal United States citizen can only hope for more and more states to follow the great state of Arizona's lead., and of coarse, Jan Brewer. You go sheriff Joe.
What does it say? It says that these United States remain united in name only and too many of "you" have become "crazies!" Does the US Constitution matters any more? Just try to change it!
Jack: What it says is that "One pound of learning requires ten pounds of common sense to apply it".
if 22 states are considering what arizona is trying to do, i would say they too are whacked out. underneath the skin, we ALL are the same.
It would be wonderful. Maybe some people would return to their countries and protest/demand better.
When 22 states are considering immigration laws like Arizona. The country is sending a message that they want the borders protected and immigration laws already on the books enforced.
Jack, With this post, you will find out, if you already don't know by now, just how much legal America is sick to death of being the Doormat and sponge of Mexico and it's hypocrit president Calderon. Our country cannot and shouldn't continue to support every third world person with their hand out. Enough is enough already, go protest your own streets, force your hypocrit president Calderon's hand into doing something good for his people, instead of encouraging his people to break into the United States so our tax payers can support his people while his people continue to send their tax fee dollars back to Mexico. Anyone reading my comment, please go to google and pull up Mexico's illegal immigration laws. You won't believe what your reading. We, the United States, needs to adopt and enforce Mexico's illegal alien invader laws right here in the good old U.S.
As supporter of SB 1070 (when it was in its original form), I do feel that each state should follow suit in upholding the FEDERAL law that governs people entering the United States. The government would be stuck in peril over various suits if other states followed. I say kudos to them if they do.
You have to be a million to have any say in what goes on in this country. Everyone should stop paying income taxes and let the country go down the tubes. Tired of paying for illegals and anchor babies.
CNN supports the illegals also, so I don't know why you waste your time asking these questions. Does anyone really care what Americans think?
If all 22 and Arizona were to make it as a proposed constitutional amendment, then only 12 more are required for a convention and another 4 more for it to become the law of the land.
Until then it just means that states are having trouble getting the police in their jurisdictions to do anything. You see, the federal government is taking the blame, but the fault lies locally.
Harry
Millersburg, Ky
Clearly It says 2 things,
The number of true Americans who think the federal government has little or no Integrity, Ethics or Loyalty when it comes to serving the people is growing.
It is going to take a rebellion to fix it.
It might be a good thing Jack because it would force the Federal Government to have to address this monumental problem. The thing they could do NOW would be to levy fines so heavy on those found to knowingly employ illegals that they'd think twice about doing it again. Personally, I don't believe that the feds have ever been serious about controlling this problem so perhaps it's time that the states forced them to.
Jack,
Here's 5 thoughts:
1. It says that enforcing the borders against illegal entry is very popular and has been for decades.
2. It says that most people are tired of the federal government ignoring its own laws on this matter.
3. It says that most people think the federal government does not care what they think but some state government's still do.
4. It says that some people think that illegals are treated better than they are.
5. It says that state political officials understand the mood of their electorate on this issue and are exploiting it to their advantage.
It's very simple , it means that the Federal Government is not doing its job. They don't know how. That's what you get when you elect a rookie into the white house.
First of all... What is the Immigration Legistlation in Arizona? Not you see happening now! You have Flip/Flopped so much since Obama came on the scene, you dont know your Ass from your elbow. Ask this question again in another six months."
I says the Fed should wake up and start doing the people's business instead of catering to Illegal Aliens.
The Republicans want cheap labor and the Democrats want the Hispanic vote. It is about time they started working on getting American votes and American jobs as their first priority.
Here's a thought. Why not put a hundred thousand troops that are coming home from Iraq in strategic areas along the border? That might be too much like right. To answer your question. It means that in 22 states the federal government has not been doing its job of protecting the countries borders. It means that the citizens want the government to do its job of protecting the borders. It also, means that its time for the government to do its job by protecting the countries borders. It should be said that the AZ law does not apply to only Latinos. It was said in 80's when this issue came up and President Regan gave amnesty to the illegals. " We cannot find them all" My question is why can't we try? If we don't try we have no chance of ever controlling our countries borders.
It means we are drowning in debt and cant take anymore.None of us. We would like to help but we cant right now.
It means that the last seven Presidents of the United States of America should have been impeached for complete and total failure of performing their duties. They swore an oath to, "uphold the laws and Constitution." The United States does have immigration laws. Why haven't any of our chief executives upheld the the law? Why haven't they been impeached? Isn't failure to execute their office a high crime and misdemeanor. Seal the borders! Send the illegals back to their native lands. Strike the part of the law dealing with anchor babies. Find any other country that has a provision for anchor babies. Wake up America. Your elected officials arre giving your country away.
It very obviously says that the Federal Government is not keeping step with what American citizens want and deserve. All the politicans are CYAing and throwing their constituents to the dogs.
It sounds like a revolution. And it's about time we had one. The rights of every citizen are trampled upon by those poor souls who break our laws in order to better themselves. I am a Democrat, but seeing how Obama and the rest of the party Panders to ILLEGAL Latinos is sickening. What about those Latinos who worked within the system to earn their rights under our laws. These illegals are walking all over them too. If caught, illegals should be tried and convicted just like any criminal. Too bad if they feel paranoid–what part of breaking the law doesn't the illegal and the pandering Democrat understand? If the federal government refuses to abide by U.S. Immigration law and refuses to allow States of enforce them, then I say it is high time for "revolution"–we need a Constitutional Amendment.
Dear Jack,
It is saying that they are focussed on dividing people and not focussed on what is on people's mind : jobs!
It says they and the rest of the states irresponsibly turned their backs on the Immigration Reform and Control Act, enacted November 6, 1986. The law made it illegal to knowingly hire or recruit illegal immigrants. The government and employers ignored the law. The fact is those states sent the message inviting illegals to come to do the millions of the jobs that we said we wouldn’t do.
We held a carrot on a stick for them to come here, and now they want to shamelessly beat them out of the country with the carrot less stick.
It tells me that the U.S. government needs to get of it's butt and pass laws dealing with immigration. I'm beginning to think we have nothing but a congress full of idiots that have no intention of doing what the American people want them to do. Big business is at it again stuffing the pockets of senators and congressmen to make sure that their slave labor force stays as it is.
It says that the federal government's long-standing "solution" of doing next to nothing is not acceptable to those states most affected by the problems associated with illegal immigration. Arizona showed a lot of guts taking the bull by the horns, and now many other states are jumping on the bandwagon. None of it would be necessary if Obama would genuinely take a stab at real reform. Unfortunately, he is too busy fundraising to actually run America right now.
If the feds don't have the cojones to enforce the laws of our nation then the states must step in to do the job. Illegals are costing the states millions of dollars annually for emergency room health care so state governments have a fiduciary responsibility to their citizens to eliminate spending for non-citizens.
Sounds like Arizona;may not be so crazy after all and this would certainly keep att gen Holder busy.....
What the majority wants doesnt seem to matter anymore Jack. 22 laws will be struck down by judicial activists.
It says the obvious – federal immigration policy is a dismal failure and the states are stepping in where the federal government has left a vacuum. It also shows the level of confidence people have in the congress and administration crafting a solution to this debacle.
Chatham, VA
22? Thats all? Why not 49? The word illegal should mean the same thing to everyone.
It says that we are fed up with the Federal Government sitting on their hands and refusing to enforce their own laws. If the Feds won't do it the States will. If some guy in a robe says the States can't do it then the PEOPLE will!
It clearly says that the Federal Government is doing very little to stem the tide of illegals invading the USA. Ergo, the citizens of the states are compelled to enact their own states laws. The Congress and President are all too timid to enact and enforce a reasonable Federal law because the want the Hispanic votes.
It says - loud and clear - that the majority of Americans are fed up with our borders leaking like sieves, while illegals siphon off benefits and money intended for taxpayers. It says we're sick of crime rates going through the roof and people who don't speak our language taking our jobs. Arizona rocks! More power to them. And I wish those 22 states well and hope mine is in their number.
Jack, Simply stated people are just fed up w./ the overall abuse illegals pose and how the government seems not to care one way or another.
It tells me that, as usual, America doesn't want to face the reality that Nation State Capitalism is dead and will continue to take the easy way out and blame the other. Do you people really think the Agro-Business giants want immigration reform? Then by extension, do you really think that their employees (congress) want reform? No. It's all window dressing.
It means that states other than Arizona are waking up to the fact that Washington has not done their job. The wagons are starting to form a circle to confront the federal government on the many issues facing this country. Isn't it about time? Where is John Wayne when we need him?
I live in Lorain oh, we don't have a illegal aliens like states boarding Mexico but I certainly am concerned about them. They are taking jobs, not paying taxes, and put a strain on the medical system since they seldom pay for the services. Who pays the bills...the middle working class people. I don't have a problem if they go through the proper channels to become a US citizen. They are breaking the law. If they protested in the states in other countries they would probably come up missing. Why should they even be able to protest in the streets....Again I say they are BREAKING THE LAW.
Then maybe it's time for the Congress to get off it's tush and address this problem. If the courts are saying it's a Federal problem and ordering the States to cease and desist, the how about the Feds doing something?
My suggestion.... Do not try to fight Economics and Geography...
No body has ever won... Study East / West Germany and USSR
We go to Wal mart but Curse Chinese
We eat cheap food but insult Mexican illegal workers hired by Americans
We consume 25% of world oil but curse Middle Eastern countries...
We need to control our appetite, else we we will make entire world our enemy.
Do set up fence and legal frame work but DO NOT insult people because that can turn, Mexicans, Middle East, Chinese into enemies
Everyone is tired of the "open borders" in the United States. Corporate America has stopped their pupits from enforcing our Federal Laws. "We the People" want to throw off the yolk of their ownership and it can(is) begin(beginning) in each state. Only 38 states are needed to change the Constitution.
Since the pupits refuse to represent the People, Laws must be written to force them. The "illegal immitgrants" have caused the People to rally.
Jack
I am from El Paso and I can tell you most people at the UTEP campus can care less. However alot of people from El Paso are getting fed up with the Governor by making El Paso look like Iraq for political agenda. With all the violence in Mexico, El Paso is ok and is one of the safest cities in the US.
The Congress, representing all 50 states, needs to enact comprehensive immigration reform.
Jack,
That United States citizens are tired of waiting for the Federal Government to step up and enforce the federal illegal immigration legislation. It's time for our President to stand up to Mexico.
This is a clear sign that the American people are fed up with the failure of our Federal Government to address and solve this issue. We must address the illegal alien situation that we currently have and stop the flow that continues to invade our country. The rule of law must be recognized and enforced without prejudice. We have the law but not one federal agency with the backbone to enforce it to its fullest extent.
The Fed, as usual, is not doing it's job of protecting our borders and their citizens. This is another example why leaving any job up to the government is just a stupid idea. Remember, illegals today are Democratic votes tomorrow.
Jack, It sez that 28 other states should get get ready for a rash of illegal immigrants.
There's dummy's in all 22 states isn't there?
It says that the people want the federal government to enforce the immigration laws. Perhaps we will find out for sure if the government still derives its power from the consent of the governed of if that is just part of our history.
Jack, although I doubt that a bullet from Juarez can possibly hit a building on UTEP's campus (because it would have to travel across a dirt road, a river, an interstate highway, a parking lot, and a football stadium to do so), I can understand why other states would follow Arizona's lead: it's simply the right thing to do.
For far too long, this country has "turned a blind eye" to the millions of illegal immigrants living in this country, seemingly welcoming them with open arms. It's now time to simply enforce the laws that are already in effect in order to gain control of a problem that's gotten way out of hand.
Jack, I think it's pretty obvious, and has been for a quite few years, that the nation needs to secure its Mexican border, and for far greater reasons than just illegal immigrants. If we closed the border and stopped all traffic with Mexico we would be better off. If we could figure out how to control all traffic to our benefit we would be in high cotton.
Allen
Hartwell GA
22 States would send a message of ignorance.
This is not an individual problem, this is our problem. Doing something even if it is morally and humanly wrong is not the answer.
The problem are not drug dealers, but those who depend on drugs.
The problem is not illegal immigrants, but an economy that cannot support it's citizens.
Let's find a solution to the problems, not discriminatory fixes that do not even touch the surface.
It has been a long time coming, and the more states that have laws against the illegals, the better. Since the illegals are distributed among the states, there is no state that is safe from the drug dealers and criminals of all kind.
Doris
Ojai, California
Jack,
The corporate owners of our federal congress will now be expanded to the states. The state legislators do not cost much. The corporate-persons wantL less than minimum wage employees with no rights, no benefits and no voice. Till corporate America decides to not hire these helpless people there will be no change. The states will NOT engage in AZ's hate fest.
The propagandists will try and convince us differently but with corporation-persons able to spend multiple billions they will prevail. After all half of us peons are stupid. So propaganda works well. Just look at our advertising budgets.
It says Arizona has the right idea. Simply pass a new law, and the illegals flee. If the 22 states were actually 49, we'd be well on our way to solving the illegal immigration problem, with or without Washington's help.
It says Arizona has the right idea. Simply pass a new law, and the illegals flee. If the 22 states were actually 49, we'd be well on our way to solving the illegal immigration problem, with or without Washington's help.
Sarah
Denver, CO
It's still not enough, we need 49 more. But New Mexico won't be one of them until we get rid of our liberal governor. But that will happen in November, so maybe next year we too can join the 22 which by that time will hopefully have increased to a national majority. And anyway in the meantime if we keep being invaded, there will be so many illegals, we can all hire a personal servant for fifty cents an hour. Just think, no more having to do the work Americans don't like to do. Just pop open a beer and let your personal servant do all the household chores.
Dave in Albuquerque
It Say's That Immigration Is Illegal And If The Federal Goverment Isn't Going To Nothing About This Issue Then The States And The Governor's Leading The States Are Going To Take Action! I Don't Care How You Look At The Issue Of Immigration Its Illegal And We Have To Put A Stop To It! We Need To Seal Off And Patrol Our Borders And Make A Pathway For Citizenship For The 12 Million Illegals Here In The United States That Is The Only Way We Can Solve This Crises And If The Federal Goverment And President Obama Continues To Ignore Immigration Then I Support Laws Such As The Law In Arizona And I Encourage All Governors To Do Follow Governor Jan Brewer's Example!
Scott Stodden (Freeport,Illinois)
Monkey see, Monkey do! This is not about illegal immigration, Jack. It's about the ethnic cleansing of Mexicans. Are Canadians and Asians included in the search for illegals? I bet not. Build the fences, have the National Guard patrol both the Canadian and Mexican borders. I do not think it takes a brain surgeon to figure this one out!
It means that many of us who are ourselves descendants of immigrants are becoming selfish and arrogant.
Jack,
From Jane Reoch
Hancock, Michigan
If 22 other states are considering Arizona’s law it is because they realize that their state budgets can no longer support all the Poor of this World. Our economy speaks that truth. Violence or none, illegal immigrants, contribute to the greater issue of states going bankrupt to provide the American Dream, that which our citizens are losing everyday from home forecloses and lost jobs. We have legal quotas for various countries. Why exceed them if they are the law? It appears that states will handle their economy and also law enforcement will be much better than the Federal Government’s. Micro, rather than Macro management is always easier.
What does it say if 22 states are considering immigration legislation like Arizona’s?
I didn't realize that 22 states were border states. Guess I need to reach for the map of the US to count them.
Look, we all know that we have an illegal immigration issue here in the US. No one, including the president, discounts this. However, is THIS the issue that we need to be dealing with NOW? NO.
The ECONOMY is a much bigger issue and our president is working on it. It would be nice if the Republicons would work with him, but they are putting their re-elections ahead of Americans in need of help.
No Republican will see my vote for a very LONG time if ever again.
Americans are NOT stupid. We see them for the OBSTRUCTIONIST that they are!
Jenna
Roseville CA
It means that 28 other states should be prepared to welcome with open arms millions of illegals and all the problems that come with them. Hope those states have BIG budget surpluses, they're going to need them.
Granted something needs to be done, but this is an open license to discriminate. We have all witnessed this happening without a blueprint to do so.
Read where there was a connection between the governor and the prosperous private prisons in AZ. AZ does not deport, they imprision all, thus the need for additional prisions which will be privately owned. Certainly would be worth investigating.
GOOD IDEA!! They're Walking All Over Us!! Has To Stop Sometime & The Best Place Is At The Beginning!! An Old Man Once Said, "The Sooner, The Better"!! I Agree, Don't You?! William Klatt-Saint Joseph, MI
It says that our citizens are waking up to the mess DC has made of our immigration policy one state at a time. It has taken a state ravaged by the influx of illegal immigrants to get the process rolling.
It says that lawlessness, & hatred for our Constitution are alive & well.
It means people are sick and tired of people (Illegal immigration is not lawful) breaking the the law and wants to have the laws enforced. The rules are there for a reason and must apply to everyone. Either Change the Law or Enforce it.
It says that State governments are more in tune with reality and the concerns of their constituents than the Federal government.
It means there are at least 22 states with governors and attorney generals that don't know the US Constitution any better then Arizona.
The 1950's thought-process is still alive in the hearts of the descendants of jerks! The apple doesn't fall far from the tree!
Checking the immigration status of a person is not stopping the shootouts across the border and when the gun fights spill over into the US, no one is going to stop to see if they have their papers and ICE is not going to take the time to call for a “Time Out” to see if the people involved in the shootout are here legally. We have the means and technology in our military to stop these people along with the drug dealers and drug gangs if we will just bring them home and turn them loose on the border.
Jack, the state governments are trying to protect their citizens. Obviously our Democrat Party led Congress and President are more interested in votes and power.
Minesh Baxi, Troy, MI
It says that Republican'ts will lose elections in those states.
They said long ago that they don't care what kind of atrocities are taking place along that border, because they won't do anything about immigration reform until after the electioms – AND THAT'S FINAL! Everything has been ready for ages, just waiting for them to come to the table, & begin discussions.
You don't have to take my word for it, just check reputable, bipartisan news sources, like Factcheck.
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Jack, it says that the majority of people in this nation want our borders protected and as usual the politicans don't or won' want to hear us.
Jack,
Didn't Chuck Norris put everything in place today when he said, we can secure the boarders of Afganastan and Iraq, but we can't secure our own boarders?
Aliso Viejo, California just 75 miles north Tiajuna!
With 22 states already considering legislation similar to AZ SB1070 they will have nearly 50% of the country closed to them...
The Good News!....they're already started leaving FL.
The Bad News!....they're coming to your state or a state near you.
They'll head for the sanctuary states...CA, WA and NM, UT etc....
The last to see the light will be CA...she'll go bankrupt and I have to say that it couldn't happen to a better state....now how do you like your boycotts
I think it means that it's time for the president to face this and give us the immigration reform we need ...or he'll be suing every state and wasting more money that we don't have!!
It means our ability to govern ourselves is broken!!!!
Obviously it means that only 22 states (so far) have the cajones to tell the Feds to enforce existing law or the states will take matters into their own hands. Kudos to any state that supports SB1070 style legislation.
With 22 states already considering legislation similar to AZ SB1070 they will have nearly 50% of the country closed to them...
The Good News!....they've already started leaving FL.
The Bad News!....they're coming to your state or a state near... you.
They'll head for the sanctuary states...CA, WA and NM, etc....
The last t...o see the light will be CA...she'll go bankrupt and I have to say that it couldn't happen to a better state....now how do you like your boycotts
It says we have incredibly short memories – think Native American Indians.
I'm sick of people on the right using boogie men, demonizing people during an incredibly difficult time, in order to win political favor. What happens when Mexicans (or Muslims, for that matter) start getting killed? There's a price to pay for stirring up hate amongst the ignorant, and those doing the stirring know this. Where is their common decency?
It says that the economy is bad, Jack. When it is, people always look for scapegoats. And people start to lose their rational sense. It costs $29,000 to deport an individual and our prisons are overcrowded as they are. You're talking about spending a lot of money on rounding up, detaining, and deporting a heck of a lot of people. It'll cost more – way more than having them here. It would be much more intelligent and cost effective to focus on actual criminal activity – such as drug trafficking, and pass comprehensive immigration reform that includes a National ID.
It means that 22 states are frustrated with not knowing what to do with the ever-increasing influx of illegal aliens. It does not, however, mean that they are right! It means they have no legal recourse to go after the real culprits: those who hire illegal aliens.
Although I support strong enforcement of our immigration laws, people are blowing this out of proportion. Check the FBI crime stats for El Paso, the city mentioned by Cafferty, and you will learn it has one of lower crime rates of any city in America.
In addition, the drug cartel problem is one caused by America. Name the country that:
1. Imports more illegal drugs than any other in the world.
2. Exports hundreds of billions of dollars to drug cartels.
In other words, the drug problem is caused by America, not Mexico.
It means the the United States CITIZENS are sick of nothing being done and want "change". If 22 other states are looking at a law the same as ours then i would love to see how President obama sues 23 states.
It means there's an election coming up and the demagogues are out whipping up fear.
Marc Ferguson
Easthampton, MA
It means the price of my produce is going to go through the roof!
Jacquie
Canada
It means that the Obama administration isn't doing nearlly enough about immigration and border issues, so states are taking matters into their own hands. As they should. It's time for this president to stop ignoring public opinion and listen to the needs and concerns of the people.
It means Jack, that the people are fed up with the federal government's inaction and refusal to enforce the law. It means the people are taking back this country from the incompetent self-absorbed politicians currently occupying Washington DC.
Hooray for --at least-22 more states to do what the Federal Government has not got the ????? to do. My comment is -Go to it and pass the laws. We finally need them. And by the way, if you have never paid into the Social Security Fund, then NO benefits period.
It says that the right wingers have louder voices than those of us who have common sense!
It means that 22 states are repeating history.
Particularly the nativist "know-nothing" groups that hated the Irish, the Asians, the Catholics, and so on. It's just so much simpler to do that then to go after the ones who HIRE illegal immigrants, as they own the politicians – just like they have throughout history.
If 22 states are considering making laws similar to Arizona's it means the Government has failed to serve and protect the citizens of the Unite States of America.
It says no one respects the Constitution anymore. Immigration isn't being controlled so we defy the Constitution to make a name for ourselves. Both parties are to blame and this didn't start in January, 2009,with President Obama, it has been going on for decades and will continue until our elected officials of both parties quit taking the payola for cheap labor and votes and actually enforce out immigration laws.We don't need reform, just enforcement.
Here's the fact: The states have given out so many "handouts" to these illegal immigrants so much, the 21 states have been overwhelmed to the point of no return. Since they've asked illegal immigrants to go else where and the illegal immigrants won't because of the state's freebees, there fore the 21 states have to make NEW and Immigration-enforceable laws, just like Arizona's, to kill the handouts so that the illegal immigrants would leave. Will it happen? I say YES. Then Obama has a bigger headache than before!!
The laws need to meet illegal immigrants where it is easiest to find them: border checkpoints, employment, and government assistance. If illegal immigrants can't work or get government handouts, then they will pursue legal routes to live in America. We all come from immigrant stock, and there should be no malice toward anyone who wishes to join the great American nation: it just needs to be legit.
it means i will move my vacation to other part of the world.
every year i come to us for vacation
with that law, with my asian face, i dont want to spend a night in jail because leave my passport at the hotel
bye bye.. States
It means that there are other politicians facing elections. Lets stop pretending that these laws will make a dent in illegal immigration. It is about seeming more conservative than the next guy.
It just goes to show you, Jack, how much individual states have lost faith in the federal government's inefficiency with border control. Because the federal government hasn't done so much as lift a finger in these matters, individual states are now picking up the slack. I can't wait until the rest of the states in our nation follow suit with similar laws to keep illegal immigrants out.
It means that politicians are playing politics rather than looking at the facts. As an Arizonan, I am appalled at the attitude of our state and federal politicians. They ignore the facts. Crime is down in Arizona; the number of crossings continues to go down; the number of deportions continue to go up. McCain and Kyl who are senior senators yet they blame the federal government. They encourage useless border security strategies like placing National Guard who by law have no authority to apprehend or arrest. They initially voted against additional funding for border security playing games but when their games backfired, they blamed the game playing on the Democrats. Let's stop the politics and let the federal government CONTINUE to make our border more secure. I encourage border states to COOPERATE, not fight the federal government in border security.
It means the GOP-Tea Party infestation is growing out of control in 22 states and a strong anti-viral agent is needed to bring it under control.
It means that the Federal Government is following the same principles of the 3 monkeys: see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil. Therefore they (the feds) will do no evil. As a youngster I was always taught that if you want something done right, or in this case, if you want anything done at all, you must do it yourself. The states are done waiting for the feds to do their job.
It means that 22 states have had enough! Ask a Native American what happens when illegal immigrants out number you. The outcome wasn't good for their way of life,was it?
Not sure what it means, but Jim Crow and segregation were all on the law books. Slavery, and womans right, homosexuality were all legislated against. There are laws in a similar amount of states making abortion illegal if and when Roe vs.Wade is overturned. Wither or not these are comparable, it should be remembered just because there are laws in the works and there is vast public support, that doesn't mean it is the right thing to do.
I have known for some time now that Americans are not educated about our Constitutional liberties–this only confirms it. Do we really want to have to carry "papers" in case we are stopped because we "look" a certain way. What's next? If you look Islamic you have to carry your "card" from your church that you are catholic or lutheran or jewish?
It means 22 states are wasting taxpayer time and money on something the federal government should be forced to handle. And come on Jack, you know as well as I do the problems of illegal immigration and drug cartel violence are two different problems.
Quit trying to connect the two and let's be honest about both problems.
More states will follow!
Yes, I believe the other states should join in with Arizona and stop the illegals from entering into our country. What happened to the laws of this country. Do people really believe if you go into Mexico without papers, that you are going to be treated as they are in our country? Our citizens are tired of the government not doing their job. It is time that Americans get together and have their own demonstratons, carry our signs that say, "this is America, our country and you have to obey the laws." Why is it that the illegals have more rights than we citizens. Stand up people and fight for your country and its laws and force the government to protect our boarders.
Bring home our soldiers so they can protect our borders at home, we need them
It says that it's a midterm election year and politicians want a silver bullet issue to get themselves elected. The States aren't actually going to pass this thing because it's a big fat waste of money. You think when it really comes down to it that people are going to want the police spending their time arresting a whole bunch of people who aren't really doing much of anything wrong? And then you think people are going to like spending the money to hold those folks in jail ? What do they plan on doing with the kids?
This new group of States that want to follow suit (22) are finally showing that they do have the nerve to stand up to the Government and make it work their way since the Government isn't doing anything. We all know that nothing will be done no matter what the country says, first of because it's an election year. If this Gvnt. cant stand up for the people and by the people, then we have to do what ever it takes. HooRay for the 22 states. I am in one of them.
I say thank you and hope Illinois will be one of the states to adopt some kind of law. It just shows how frustrated americans are at having all these people come here and break the law, abuse our social services, demand special teachers in our schools who are hurting so badly for money, and no one does anything. I am tired of hearing how – Oh its ok, they are just trying to make a better life for themselves. SO AM I and I'm not out breaking the law. How much easier could my life be, if I went and robbed a bank for lots of money, and the police say but oh, its ok because I am trying to make a better life for me and my family. That is not how it works, at least I hope so. But elected officials are too worried about getting re-elected than doing what is best for the country.
I believe this means that the majority of Americans are blaming problems that are not the fault of illegal immigrants on illegal immigrants. If these laws were being passed due to an unprecedented wave of illegal immigration, that would be one thing, but the rate of illegal immigration into this country has been dropping for the past several years. The truth is, these laws are being suggested because people want to blame violent crime on illegal immigrants. Arizona's law was passed in the wake of the murder of a rancher by an illegal immigrant. Mr Cafferty, you even seem to suggest that increased violence in Mexico is evidence of a need for Arizona like immigration laws. However, study after study has shown that illegal immigrant are responsible for no greater percentage of violent crime than anyone else in this country. If Americans are concerned about violence in Mexico, we should make our drug policy a public health issue, not a criminal issue (which does nothing but inflate the price of narcotics and give more power to cartels in Mexico).
It means the states are listening to the people. At the grocery store, the spanish speaking couple ahead of me purchased $187.00 worth of food. I wondered how they could afford it. It became clear when they purchased it with food stamps. We seem to be a country more concerned about caring for spanish speaking people than our elderly.
Carol
Santa Barbara CA
If 22 states are considering then maybe will have a comprehensive plan to control illegal immigrants and unlawful use of migrant workers versus needy legal workers.
Jack, it tells Federal Gov should Shame on itself. Enforce the existing immigration laws on book and if you can't then declare it to congress and have them changed else this is the very much first reason why president Obama will not keep his second term. American people are smart. President should know that not all decisions should follow the heart but should know what Citizens want.
Arizona,Texas,Florida and Ca have a valid grouse to raise this isssue as the first three have a border filled with illegal drugs and crossings.To raise this issue and apply it to the rest of the country is a political gimmick aimed at the upcoming elections fueled by unscroupleous politicians to divert the attention. As the economy recovers and as Americans become wealthy again they will need somebody again to do all those menial jobs and I am sure it will be a bigger issue then resulting in regret and retracing the path........
it means that congress needs to do something instead clinging to party doctrine. We need solutions not arguments. Arizona and 22 other states see a problem that is partially in congresses domain- now congress needs to compromise and fix the problem
It means that 22 states have had enough! Ask a Native American how illegal immigration tuned out for them.....that is, if you can find one. Oh, I forgot, most of them are on a reservation
It means the federal government and this administration care more about illegal immigrants than protecting it's own citizens. Not for humane reasons...but because of votes. It also means since those votes are so important to them they know illegal immigrants are managing to cast ballots despite lack of citizenship. That's just me but that's my opinion.
Jack it is about time that the politicians in Washington realize that most of us want some controls on illegal emigration. The media keeps telling us that we can not enforce our laws and send all of the illegals home. Maybe that is true, but we need to be slowing the continuing increase of the number of illegals in the country. It is a shame that the states are having to attempt to enforce our federal laws. Even more shameful is that the federal government is trying to stop the states from enforcing the law.
Pat, Virginia
It means that more and more Americans have no problem with giving up more and more freedom in the name of false security.
The "Papers please"part of the bills allow law enforcement to stop anyone under any pretext to ask for your papers. That we have reached a point where we once watched movies where the SS officer walked down the middle of the train and everyone was fearful that even though they had their papers when asked "papers please" they would still be taken away, and thanked God we didn't live in such a world.
Far too many Americans think that because they are white they cannot be asked that question. BY law they will ALL have to be asked for their "papers please"
WAIT till it happens to them and then see what happens.
IS this what we really want to get rid of an illegal problem?
Hooray! for those states that say"if you love America, become a citizen" and pay your fair share. OR! go home and make improvements in your country, so you can have a life there and we could fight for a better life together, for all
Jack....you keep referring to these polls telling us a majority of Americans support the Arizona law.
What are the actual number of people who have taken these polls?
100, ....1000.....10,000???
These references to polls sound official, but do they truely reflect the sentiment of all Americans?
American people exerting their freedom. As their voted representatives are representing with new law.
Hello, Hello Jack is anyone home?
The Arizona law to which you speak is NOT that is NOT "A immigration Law"
It simply means that the GOP has managed to spread the fear of undocumented immigrants to 22 states!
The state of Utah is considering a similar law, which is such a hypocrisy since the Mormons send thousands of missionaries to South and Central America, and often promise them entrance to the U.S.! Hypocrisy.
All states should have laws like Arizona. What would happen if drug pushing americans invaded the border into Mexico violating the laws of Mexico ? Would Mexico send the americans to school, give them medical care and food and permit them to work ? I don't thank so.
Our leaders are out of touch. They say that illeagals who have not commited a crime are alright and "deserve to be here"; did I miss something what about being illeagle to begin with. Try to cross into another country and they throw away the key and you can whistle for your civil rights and benefits.
It is disgusting.
Dave NY
I think border states have every right to be concerned about their security. However, in states like my homestate, Michigan, the only people jumping the border are the hundreds of Canadians that come into the U.S. via the busiest crossing in N. America to work and provide goods and services. In this state, pushing an immigration law like Arizona's is nothing but, election year posturing. Unless there's some great Canadian drug war that's flying under the media's radar. Our unemployment rate is over 14% and we have bigger fish to fry.
If 22 states are considering such a measure then it shows that these states are far more in touch with reality then the current administration and congress. These states are on the front lines and fight the battle each day and have no misconception of reality. This administration is so lost you can typically find them in the rose garden counting rose peddles and dreaming of world peace, as the bullets fly from Juarez into El Paso.
It means that 22 other states are finally going to uphold the law of the land. I don't understand what the issue is, they are in this country illegally, by definition of the word, THEY HAVE BROKEN THE LAW, so what is the problem with enforcing the law. Guess what when I travel abroad the first thing they ask me is what is my citizenship, since I was not committing a crime I had no issues. I guess the liberals have an issue with law enforcements, except when someone is effecting them.
I look forward to the day when all of the states uphold the constitution and uphold all of the laws!!!
It means that the sensationalist reporting about border problems is very effective. It's spreading fear and hatred. The killings and drug wars have very little to do with illegal immigrants, and everything to do do with the drug consumption and the selling of guns by the Americans. But by putting the two stories together you spread fear. There are laws and Illegal aliens would not come to this country if we did not give them jobs.
It is signaling that enough is enough. #1...the crime, #2...the drain on city and state budgets, #3....the million + losses of hospitals for just non emergency care to the illegals. This no longer has to do with jobs. Within 6 months to a year there no doubt will be an increase of states reviewing AZ's immigration bill.
This country is to the point where if from this day forward there was not an illegal crossing, we'd remain in this situation for years to come.
I fault our government for not taking a more firm stand, and place national guard troops to support the border patrol, and draw a line in the sand.
You know it's funny all these who oppose Obama on Illegal Immigration, well where were they when Bush was doing absolutely nothing about Illegal immigration.
I moved to idaho from arizona 22 years ago to escape the influx of undocumented worker in the construction trades. Well, their here in idaho and the #'s are growing. Nobody aspires to pick fruit for the rest of their lives, not even illegal's. If anyone thinks this is not true just look at the # of construction superintendents and managers that are running multi-million dollar jobs. Yeah, I could go on and on, the bottom line is, GET ON BOARD IDAHO.
we are comparing apples to oranges here, are we talking about immigration or the on going drug war in Mexico. Arizona is not an expert in immigration law, on the contrary they are totally incompetent in drafting immigration laws that are constitutionally correct. Immigration patch work laws will only lead to nothing productive and you will surly attack honest Hispanics in these states. Face it, you need a law that we be supported by the Hispanic communities. In Texas there will be a fight and protests and we will vote for a governor that is with the Hispanic community and will provide security and not racial profiling. We are not Arizona and how can you stop an ongoing war in Drug Mexico with such laws. Texas has a large Hispanic community from Houston to Dallas and our federal government is doing their job to secure the Border. Show a video on how the Border Patrol and law enforcement agencies in Texas are really working hard on this issue. Now as far as Mexico that is a whole different issue and Calderon is the right person to handle this situation.
It means that the people are fed up with our "open borders" policy and all the problems that it brings. i. e. drugs, overpopulation, congestion, strain on welfare programs, and job loss and are tired of the federal government's "head in the sand" attitude. The federal government doesn't seem to understand what "illegal" means and only wants to selectively enforce laws.
It means 22 more states will have their "day in court" along with Arizona.They will all lose- both in the Supreme Court and in the court of public opinion. Sorry Jack, but this is not the way to solve this problem.
what is being said is that an immigration policy that states in effect the following, "if you can get here, you belong here" – is no immigration policy whatsoever. america's legal immigration policy is already balanced toward canada, mexico, central america, south america, and the caribbean, and we should not be accused of unfairness toward those who wish to immigrate to our nation from our own hemisphere. no nation on earth can remain a cohesive nation if that nation cannot dictate its own immigration policy. a country to emulate on how to ensure southern border security is the republic of mexico. it is very difficult to illegally enter mexico as mexico enforces their laws against it.
paul in portland
As long as no one doesn't anything to the people who hire Illegal Immigrants, why bother. A 10 thousand dollar fine when you can save a 100 thousand makes not sense. We also know that the same people crying about Illegal Immigrants want a law that will allow them to come work for periods of time. You want to be free from Illegal Immigration be willing to pay the price.
I bet all those states are republican ran. And please tell the media to stop with all the polling. on some things it doesn't matter what the majority thinks. I'm sure the polls durring the civil rights era showed the majority wanted to keep the status quo...just like the mosque issue...it's a right shi all these opinions don't matter!
It appears that we are moving in the right direction to see something done about common sense approach to immigration reform. No longer will the fear of being called a racist, bigot or anti-immigrant will stop good and decent americans from stoping the illegal immigrants from taking advantage from this nation. Here in California, they drive without a driver's license and when they hit a vehicle many of them just flee because they don't have auto insurance. As a legal hispanic immigrant of twenty years, a proud american by choice, and police officer, I support the Arizona immigration law and hope many states can adopt as well. Leadership is sometimes about protecting your own (legal immigrants and americans) from criminals. Yes, overstaying your visa crossing the border without proper documents is a crime.
It is un-American to go against Federal laws. It will be the end of the united States as our forefathers new and designed.
What this means that Americans have become very xenophobic. The drug wars in Mexico are a very big deal, but really have nothing to do with immigration. When you are dealing with billions of dollars and thousands of murders, immigration laws are not going to get in your way. The general fear of outsiders came with 9/11. Suddenly, many Americans realized that they were not isolated from the rest of the world and the rest of he world can be dangerous. While here are certainly real problems with immigration, they can be best solved by people not driven by irrational fear but people who look at the real problems and arrive at rational solutions.
Jim, Craig, CO
What does it say? Isn't it obvious what it says. It says we Americans are sick of lack of enforcement at the federal level. If Washington can't or won't do it, the States collectively and /or individually will do it. If your State is overrun with illegals blocking traffic, cramming sidewalks, invading neighborhoods looking for work at below minimum wage levels and sending their earnings to relatives in Mexico and elsewhere, you have had it. The federal prescriptions are a joke and everyone knows it. We know why they are here. Pay Americans a living wage for these menial jobs and we will do what they say Americans won't do.
SF BayArea, Ca.
Jack I enjoy hearing your comments, when I can and wish you well.
I worked in the 80's in hlth care from the front desk as a receptionist to the back end in billing. I knew then there would be problems, immigrants coming in knowing the way to be seen and not pay. Soon the medical grps closed up. Then in the billing dept. most immigrants never paid and so bills were written off.
I don't understand how we can allow illegials from Mexico to come here and take jobs, bring in drugs and rape people and run back home. Politicians are allowing this for gain of politicial positions; I say they can stop this and should of years ago.
I think they've started to importance of keeping our borders secure.
I lived in El Paso this summer, specifically focusing on the issues of immigration and border violence.
Sending the National Guard to the border and increasing militarization will not improve the situation.
El Paso is one of the safest cities in the country, and that safety is not independent of the violence in Juarez. El Paso is safe (thanks to law enforcement) but specifically because of the drug cartels.
Although egos of the kingpins are involved, ultimately, the drug trade is a BUSINESS. The drug cartels leave El Paso alone because it is in their own best interest not to mess with one of their greatest ports of entry.
Juarez is the battleground for American consumption of drugs.
Regarding the issue of SB-1070-like legislation, this should come as a wake-up call to Congress that we need comprehensive immigraiton reform on the NATIONAL scale so that conservatives don't completely alienate immigrants, their children, and all of the minorities they count as constituents.
I am not in total lockstep with Arizona's "I" laws, but I think something along the lines of it should be enacted by all the states. It is a huge complicated issue to resolve and cannot be a addressed halfheartedly. It must be very definitive. As is Arizona. What I feel should be done, is to close the Mexico/U.S. border to immigration completely for five years. During those five years work diligently to compile a fair and definitive set of rules to clearly and emphatically state no illegal entry will be tolerated and deportation will be automatic, swift and without exception. I also feel that entering illegally shall nullify any chance of applying for entry ever. The other "must," is no child born in the U.S. of an illegal parent shall be given automatic citizenship and shall be deported along with their illegal parent. The five years should also be spent finding and deporting illegals found.
Thom Richer
Negaunee, MI
It says that the tyranny of the majority is still alive in the United States. The federal government may be dropping the ball on immigration and the border, but this should not mean tearing down the fabric of who we are as a nation. I am from the south and I know very well the persecution of one group of people in order to appease the roaring majority. The same people screaming "rule of law" would be the first to cry foul if they were interrogated about any number of laws they break. No one wants bad behavior rewarded, but why meet bad behavior with bad laws. The fact that here all you here is illegal "mexicans" it is clear illegal immigration is not all that is on these law makers minds. From the controversy of the Islamic community center and the targeting of hispanics makes one not consider "what does it mean for 22 states considering this, but who's next.
As a long time resident of El Paso, I find it offensive how Gov. Perry tries to portray our town. Despite the fact that it is the sister city to Cuidad Juarez which is the deadliest town, our city remains one of the safest cities to live in.
As a former student of UTEP, I find it hard that a stray bullet would be able to hit Bell Hall which is almost nestled in the middle of the university. UTEP is located on a hill while the colonia in question is down slope. The bullet would have to cross the iron curtain, Paisano street, curve up and across I-10, go across a parking lot which may now have a new building, then go through or across some other buildings to finally hit Bell Hall. My theory–Bell Hall is where the math professors have their office or at least it used to be when I went there. Maybe someone was not happy with their grade or failed. Sounds more reasonable to me.
Anyway, shows how out of touch Gov. Perry is with El Paso.
It says the federal government should observe, learn a lesson, and as Lee Iacoco used to say, "follow"!
It's about time this country finally listened to the majority of it's leagle
citizens. Missouri has had this in place for years now. AZ. is to be commended for standing up to the wimps in DC. I live in TX. and Rick Perry has most of this state behind him and in front of him to get our state cleaned up of persons not supposed to be here. Never Give up!!
Arizona began talking about border security and now people are talking about changing the whole immigration process system which only the Federal Government can do. This sounds to me like Americans do not want border security but to change our entire immigration process. With these laws you want to force residents to carry their green card, which can be lost very easily . You want citizens to carry their papers just in case you get stopped by an policeman. You want to deny citizenship to newborns that are born to illegals. Some in California would love to take away the citizenship of Hispanics that are already born. This to me does not sound like border security, this sounds like a radical immigration change. Now if we want to talk about border security, I think you really mean troops and border agents and technology.