Jared Johnson
Ms. Duquette
AP U.S. Gov. and Pol.
14 November 2010
Immigration Reform
There is no doubt that immigration is a major topic in the government. Although there is much concern on how to handle it, politicians are wary when it comes to discussing and solving the issue. More than anything the reason why there does not seem to be much success in coming to a conclusion is due to the fact of differences between the two parties. A consensus is hard to come by when determining how to handle immigrants, whether illegal or not. Generally Republicans are for tighter and more enforced borders whereas Democrats favor amnesty, and now the question is what will serve as a good median
Republicans are not against immigration and they are not the only ones against illegal immigration either, but they do believe there should be more consequences and higher security when it comes to immigrants. They are for stricter laws when it comes to allowing immigrants into the country or allowing illegal immigrants to stay. More detailed rules on hiring illegal immigrants are also a concern for the Republicans, and of course a tighter border along with this. Lastly the Republicans differ from the Democrats in the idea of amnesty for illegal immigrants, being completely against this.
Next the Democrats do support security at the borders but they also believe that the borders should be more open. They believe that immigrants should eventually become legal based on how hard they work, if they pay taxes, and if they display “good moral character”. Democrats are in favor of helping immigrants in any way possible also. This includes services that can support families or classes that can teach immigrants American culture, for instance English.
Again, America is based on immigrants and immigration, and both party agrees with this statement, but to what extent is the only question. Republicans believe that the country needs immigrants, but their argument is that it needs legal immigrants. A major reason is with employment and Republicans are fighting for strict laws, regulations, and consequences on account of employees and even employers. Democrats view this differently however in that cheap labor is good and that immigrants are now apart of the country and play a significant role, for instance with voting. They believe that it is wrong to move a family, legal or not, that is hardworking and has made a home for themselves.
Immigration has been, is, and will always be a tough subject for our or any other government to overcome. Being able to immigrate should be a choice and this is just one more reason why the United States is such an ideal country. Immigrants are allowed but the necessary steps to becoming a citizen in another country, or even continent, must be followed. The Republicans and Democrats may have their differences on this and any other subject, but this is why when a conclusion is finally reached it can be rest assured a good decision.
http://www.helium.com/items/813587-immigration-republican-and-democratic-party-positions
http://www.ontheissues.org/celeb/Republican_Party_Immigration.htm
http://www.ontheissues.org/celeb/Democratic_Party_Immigration.htm
http://www.azcentral.com/news/election/azelections/articles/2010/10/17/20101017immigration-reform-delays-by-lawmakers.html
