A an “angry white male”, I do not have a problem with immigration. What I have a problem with is the illegal part, the welfare/handouts, bilingualism and crime that has resulted. (Although my experience with most Hispanics is that they are extremely hard working). Where we have failed is in educating immigrants and insisting they become legal member of our country and integrate into the culture.
Let’s be honest, they are here, they aren’t going away, we can turn this into a positive.
Along with this Bush needs to spend time “discussing” what it means to be an American, that there are both benefits and responsibilities. Monthly talks for 30 minutes during prime time on TV would work for me. I suggest a review of the Bill of Rights, one-by-one, what do they mean and how do they apply to all. Watch the liberals scream, but it is a winning strategy. People want to be led, Bush can do it.
They are here because the Gov't has failed to protect our borders. They aren't going away because law enforcement and the INS are not doing their jobs. They have all but given up. When law enforcement agencies take the Mexican ID card rather than turning illegals over to the INS for deportation no, "they aren't going away".
We need to enforce the laws on the books. Prosecute employers who hire illegals, deport illegals anytime they are caught, and protect our borders so they don't get in to start with.
I, like you, agree with immigration, but not with illegal immigration. The Center for Immigration Studies estimates that each illegal takes $55K more from the system than they contribute over a lifetime. This is appalling. We need controlled, legal immigration with a means testing.