While listening to the Presidential debate last night, my ears perked up when the unexpected topic of immigration came up. I say “unexpected” because it is quite rare that immigration actually comes front and center on a national broadcast meant to be watched by ALL potential voters. It is also rare for the question to come up in such a way that it is impossible for the candidates to smoothly avoid the question.
Immigration came up with a potential voter asking, “Mr. Romney, what do you plan on doing with immigrants without their green cards that are currently living here as productive members of society?”
Mr. Romney gave the obligatory two minute response to the question – mentioning the need to promote legal immigration of skilled workers and not granting any of that “amnesty” stuff – although somehow indicating that the children of those “illegals” should have a path to permanent residency. The highlight for me came at the beginning when he stated, “I want our [immigration] legal system to work better. I want it to be streamlined. I want it to be clearer. I don’t think you have to — shouldn’t have to hire a lawyer to figure out how to get into this country legally.” That is great! Unless you are an immigration lawyer, of course. I would be worried if the statement was not filled with the naivete that I have come to expect from politicians discussing … basically anything. The immigration system should be streamlined and it would be great for the nation if it was more clear cut. It would also be great if the tax code was so clear that accountants weren’t needed, or if doctors were not needed to diagnose sicknesses, or if the air traffic control system didn’t need air traffic controllers (or pilots, or ground control workers) to work properly.
For his part President Obama focused on how Mr. Romney promotes “self-deportation” and has stated that he would not sign a Dream Act. President Obama also highlighted how his administration has worked to “streamline the legal immigration system, to reduce the backlog, make it easier, simpler and cheaper for people who are waiting in line.” Looking at the changes that have come to immigration law procedure in the last four years, I think President Obama is overstating the changes. It kind of reminds me of a little boy proclaiming that he is “King of the World” while standing on top of a pile of sand.
Whatever does happen, lets hope that pragmatic immigration reform does happen after the election.
On a positive note, the Presidential candidates did agree on one thing – the United States is a “nation of immigrants.” Great! I also hear that the sky is blue!
The exchange starts at 56 minutes and about 15 seconds.