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Is the much maligned Homeland Security Department the right organization to fight illegal immigration?

Bonner acknowledges that aspects of Homeland Security such as FEMA have had difficulties but stresses that "one of the best ideas" was combining INS, including Border Control, and Customs into one entity. He says that the "last thing you'd want to do is fragment" responsibility for border security again.

What about the recent duel between Giuliani and Romney over sanctuary cities? Did Romney have a point?

Bonner begins by saying that immigration is "quintessentially a federal responsibility." He says that there is "a role for state and local enforcement," which should assist the federal government, but "it is not their role to enforce federal laws." He continues: "Governor Romney had three cities that declared themselves sanctuary cities," which were "welcoming [to illegal immigrants] and evidently expressed a commitment to defend [illegals] against federal authorities." He contends "Governor Romney has to explain himself." Bonner contends that this was different from New York, "which because of the failure of the federal government at the time had large numbers of illegals residing there." He contends that it was not realistic to expect mayors of "big cities or any size city" to enforce immigration laws without "resources or authority under federal law." He bluntly accuses Romney of making "unfounded and hypocritical" claims.

If Bonner is any guide, the Giuliani camp clearly will seek to characterize immigration as a law enforcement and national security issue. If they can do so and convince voters that Giuliani's track record in fighting crime makes him the most credible person to gain control of the borders, it will certainly boost his candidacy. Meanwhile, Romney and Giuliani's other opponents will continue to cast doubt on Giuliani's past record and his commitment to fighting illegal immigration.

topics:
Islam, Law, Immigration