The American Spectator

BC: At the moment you are managing Tom Tancredo’s run for the presidency, do you think a truly conservative candidate has any chance of winning the Republican nomination in 2008? I know rightists point to the example Ronald Reagan in 1980, but it seems to me that Mr. Bush’s years in the White House have demoralized the GOP’s base.

Bay Buchanan: In 1980, Reagan had the advantage of having run in 1976. As for the base — yes, I have never seen it so demoralized. But what Republicans are looking for this year is a solid conservative, one they can trust to say what he believes. None of the so-called top three fits this billing but Tom Tancredo surely does.

BC: One of the main issues for Congressman Tancredo is illegal immigration, and it seems like many of the Republican candidates are to the left of him on it. Why are so many people in this country unconcerned about this incredibly important dilemma? The leftist stance on the subject appears to be counter-intuitive. Why shouldn’t citizens have a say about who is admitted to this country? What possible reason could there be to not maintain a tight border?

Bay Buchanan: Americans are well aware of the seriousness of this issue — everyday they pay for the consequences of illegal immigration. They want the border secured, the laws enforced, and they want no amnesty to be given for those living in the country illegally. There is no excuse for not protecting our border against illegal entry — especially in time of war. But this administration does not have the will to do the job.

Since the federal government refuses to do its job and ignores the will of the people, cities and states are now taking steps to protect their citizens from a massive invasion coming across our southern border.