A Course of Action

Hello and welcome back to The Border!



The video posted above summarizes some of the controversy surrounding the 2010 California gubernatorial campaigns, where immigration is a key topic. As seen in this video, the two candidates (Republican  Meg Whitman and Democrat Jerry Brown) have two different plans for action on what to do about illegal immigrants in California.

Mr. Brown is in support of a pathway to citizenship for existing illegal immigrants in California, but he also is an advocate of stronger border security. Another one of Brown's ideas is "Secure Communities", a program in which illegal immigrants are subject to deportation if they commit a crime.

Mrs. Whitman does not support a path to citizenship for existing illegal immigrants in California, instead promoting the distribution of more resources to border security. Whitman also stated that employers must be held accountable for hiring ONLY documented workers, which became slightly contradictory after her former housekeeper accused Whitman of employing her while knowing she was an illegal immigrant. However, Whitman advocated temporary guest worker programs for fields such as agriculture in need of workers.

Although this particular debate is happening in California, it is also happening nationwide. Somewhere in the near future, we must decide a course of action to take regarding illegal immigration in America. After researching the stances of both California candidates, I'd support a policy similar to Mr.Brown's. I think that a process of naturalization is needed for the thousands of illegal immigrants in this country that contribute to our American way. Also, I do think that repeat offenders that also happen to be illegal immigrants should be deported since they provide more harm than help to society. I'm also in support of Whitman's call to give border security more equipment to fight against illegal immigration, as border security is always emphasized by Democrats and Republicans alike. Her immigrant employee and guest worker program ideas also seemed like good ideas to help improve the status of illegal immigration in America. Overall, it will take a collaborative effort by both parties to improve immigration conditions. Seemingly the only thing people truly disagree upon is what to do with the existing illegal immigrants in America. Once a clear cut decision is made on this, I feel we can move forward together as a country.