Illegal Immigration

First, let me remind readers that The Drifting Mind is a Liberal Blog. I am a liberal and I make no apologies for that. With that said, my position may surprise you.

Yesterday, Prince William County, Virginia passed sweeping new immigration measures for the county. There is much discussion in the news, both local and national about this. First, let's understand that the operative word in this debate is "Illegal". These measures are not intended to attack immigrants in general. The wording is clear, anyone stopped or detained for breaking the law will be subject to having their immigration status checked. Police will be empowered to check the immigration status of anyone who breaks the law, whether for speeding or shoplifting, if they believe that person is in the country illegally. What the hell is so wrong with this? Immigration is a huge problem in our country and I applaud Prince William County and other local jurisdictions around the country for acting where the federal Government has failed. The measure also blocks illegal immigrants from using some county services such as, bus tours for senior citizens, leadership training programs for adults and rental and mortgage assistance. OK, why should we fund and provide mortgage assistance to illegal immigrants? Duh? This one I particularly enjoy, the measure will also prohibit illegal immigrants from getting business licenses! You mean that they could before?

The federal Government has not seriously addressed this problem. I'm not even sure they can meaningfully address this problem. Let the states and local jurisdictions do this, it will ultimately work better at the local level anyway.

We have a problem, we need to address the problem. If you are here legally, you don't have any need to be concerned. If people want to immigrate here and build a better future for themselves and their families, welcome. If you are here illegally, leave.