I know for a fact illegals are keeping wages down. If workers from other countries were not a financial savings then I am sure the illegals who do have jobs Americans want would no longer have any advantage. That is why employer sanctions have to be a big part of any solution.
I really do think there is a shortage of workers in some areas of the country- especially in jobs that are temporary. I didn't hear anything from the President that suggested worker permits would be limited to a certain number or type of job though.
Which jobs? This will not be addressed. If you are a carpenter, a dry wall guy, a plumber.... add [your skill/profession here]. Well, let's really open this up then, maybe we see illegals running for office, let's listen to and examine their platforms. Could be some are diamonds, and Congressional wages begin to suffer. Hell, we could get a Senator down to 35K (base, before the various bribes). Taxes drop immediately as the cost of government becomes much cheaper.
(/sarcasm)