These statistics aren't surprising for those of us in the L.A. area.
Many of those in states that are not affected do not understand the width and depth of this problem of illegal immigration. Yes, some of them come only to work, but many of them bring their criminal ways with them, and they all seem to be collecting welfare of some sort.
Bush's proposal will not solve anything, it will just make it worse, because he is giving the green light for millions more to come. We are sick about it.
Many that do live in those areas don't understand your fear and anger.
Why...it will never become law as is...he clearly stated that Congress would have to handle the details. A basic fact that I learned in elementary school is that the President does not make laws, Congress does. I am continually surprised at all of the seemingly intelligent people on this forum or that I have met who don't seem to grasp this concept. Bush's plan will be in the cross-cut shredder the minute it hits Congress and I think Bush knew that. Was he merely pandering to the Hispanics? Sure. Will I stay home from the polls because of it like so many have threatened on here? Not likely, because I understand that while his proposal was merely pandering for political gain (probably one of Rove's less brilliant schemes), I do have to commend him on throwing the ball onto the court to start the debate process and pushing Congress to act on a plan to resolve the problem.
Personally, I think we ought to just forget Bush's proposal and concentrate on backing Tom Tancredo's version of the bill by writing our Congresscritters.