No, I cannot and will not deny that a fence can slow down illegals who are on foot. I don’t believe it would provide any substantial impact on slowing drug traffic though. IMHO, our priority should be stopping the flow of illegals before drugs.
As I said though, they just find more creative ways around, through, over, and under the fence. It seems like a waste to fence 2000 miles of border. I do support strategically placed fencing. I haven’t spent much time examining the cost savings as you have. So I will have to give that some serious tought too.
Regarding the subs ... I watched a special about them recently on the Discovery/History channel or other and the CG said they have no idea how may subs the cartels have now. I suspect it’s more than 2 or 3. The CG suspects they have technology we don’t even know about yet.
We’ve had a good discussion and I have some things to consider, but I don’t think either of us changed our position, do you? I do realize that your perspective has valid points. I hope you can understand that most Texans (including Perry) do not strictly oppose a fence. We just aren’t convinced that it would be as effective as you believe it will be.
Actually, believe it or not, I did a little. I suppose if I HAVE to take a strategic fence, I won’t be as upset as I would have been ;)
Honestly, RE costs...
Sometime when you are feelin’ froggy, as an experiment, grab a pen and paper and take to the logical conclusion the costs involved with Illegals in America. For example, Illegal busted with a bound of pot...then figure the cost from that arrest to ultimate deportation...or arrested for assault.DUI killing some one and the cost to that family for hospital/funeral etc.
It is an absolutely STAGGERING amount of cash well into the billions every single year. Then do a somple cost analysis based on the number of illegals you personally believe that a full fence would stop.
If the numbers add up, well, there ya go. Now here’s the thing. Don’t just think “Education” or “Hospital” as those 2 alone are in the billions. Think of day to day things you see. Like the insurance you and 150 million other pay in higher monthly premiums or the added pharmacy costs to offset welfare.
I think you will be VERY upset at the numbers you generate...then realize you missed about 75% of things you or I would never think of.
Oops...forgot this. Also figure in the cash being sent to Mex and other countries that would remain here, andalso figure in the cost analysis the ‘annual’ savings gained by their lack of presence here.
My head haZ a sore ;)