Bush knows as much about the problems of illegals as any public official. No state has a larger border with Mexico than Texas. However, for some reason his experience as Governor has not made him as afraid of illegals as those around here. Where he Senator I am sure he would be like Cornyn.
There is no reason to "excuse" his political views. He puts things in their proper perspective which is something others should do.
I guess the proper perspective is "solve this problem the quickest easiest way we can".
Ronald Reagan, God bless him, tried the same thing. We will be facing this again in another 20 years.