I think the Border Issue may become Bush's al-Queda. What I mean is Clinton refused to accept al-Q's throwing down the gauntlet, declaring war and attacking us repeatedly, so Bush inherited 9-11. If we don't get whacked across the border before Bush gets out, the terror and lawlessness that exists there right now may spread and turn into an even bigger problem than al-Q.
I don't know if others have considered this or not, but, I've often thought that the reason that AQ has not made an attack (yet) that brings notice to the access to the country via our Southern border (from Mexico), is because, if/when they did/do, it will force the issue as to Southern border insecurity.
Thus, I do believe that they are "preserving" their access ability using the Southern border of the U.S. by NOT focusing any more interest/concern than is necessary.
However, I regard people -- both in elected office and otherwise -- in our country who denounce the idea of increased Southern border security (among other promiscuities related) as being indulging the problems facing our nation as to security. They actually service the enemy..."a fence won't work" and similar is nonsense but it also seems a suspect statement, in my view. Entirely suspect.