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Another Perspective
Amnesty Versus Bigotry
Why Marco Rubio and his gang are correct — and it has nothing to do with amnesty.
(Page 2 of 2)
While the devil will be in the details of drafted legislation, for the principles as they are written I suggest the answer is a resounding “no.” Anyone who would step foot on a “path to citizenship” would do so behind those who had applied through the usual legal process, after paying taxes and fines, and, critically, after enforcement of the border and of rules governing the hiring of illegal aliens have reached a degree of robustness, of “operational control,” well beyond anything this nation has seen before.
As former Colorado Senate Minority Leader Josh Penry (a conservative Republican) put it, “If Rubio’s plan is ‘amnesty’ or a violation of the ‘rule of law,’ then so is plea bargaining a speeding ticket.”
The Obama administration has gutted internal enforcement of immigration laws and moved to enact DREAM Act-like non-enforcement of potential deportation of 1.7 million illegal aliens through executive order. In 2010, representatives of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Officers union cast a unanimous Vote of No Confidence against ICE Director John Morton due to his “campaigning for immigration reforms aimed at large scale amnesty” and misrepresenting ICE data to make enforcement look stronger than it is. Mr. Morton remains in his job today, with Alabama Senator Jeff Sessions saying that comprehensive immigration reform is impossible unless Morton resigns.
But none of this reduces what should be Republican incentive to pass something along the lines of the Gang’s stated principles. Rather, it should increase GOP motivation: should the gate blocking the path to citizenship never be lifted due to lax border and employer-law enforcement, there will be only Barack Obama and Democrats to blame.
Furthermore, the details of immigration reform (as long as the major precepts of enforcement first are maintained) are irrelevant in comparison to the message that Republican-led reform would send. (It is politically critical that if there is a bill that Republicans can support and that will pass, Republicans rather than Barack Obama are perceived as its champions.)
Republican electoral woes cannot be understood through a narrow lens of any one issue. Rather it is a combination of a few key issues, primarily immigration and gay rights, which create a mental image in the minds of non-whites of all ages and young voters of all backgrounds of a political party rooted in bigotry, in fear of the other, which is to say a political party about which no other information is necessary to make a decision.
It is a sad reversal for the party that ended slavery and forced the civil rights movement down the throats of unwilling Democrats and their KKK henchmen.
Rather than lambast Marco Rubio — a likely serious contender for the 2016 Republican nomination for president along with House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI), who conspicuously and quickly offered public support for Rubio’s effort — the Gang of Eight’s framework should be applauded and supported by Republicans who realize that the GOP doesn’t have an immigration problem, it has a perception-of-intolerance problem.
The former would be bad enough, but manageable. The latter, unless soon changed, will catalyze the long-term irrelevance of the Grand Old Party.
About the Author
Ross Kaminsky is a self-employed trader and investor and is a senior fellow of the Heartland Institute. He is the host of The Ross Kaminsky Show on Denver’s NewsRadio 850 KOA at 11 AM on most Sundays. You can reach Ross by e-mail at rossputin(at)rossputin(dot)com.
Letter to the Editor View all comments (180) | Leave a comment
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John Navratil| 2.1.13 @ 6:36AM
The Republicans certainly have a brand problem. From the Left they are bigots and from the Right they are fools. Perhaps it's time for Reince Priebus to realize that the party has eaten out its soul and completely taken advantage of the conservative who has nowhere to else to go and, instead, chooses to stay home.
I agree with your position on immigration and have been in opposition to the Party position since Simpson-Mazolli and have been happy to argue the point with my fellow conservatives for year. This issue demonstrates the failure of the Republicans. Rather than recognize the world that is, with all its faults, and work to address the failing, the position has been pure orthodoxy. When I argue economics, I am labelled a "globalist." When I suggest a secondary effect of removing three or four percent of the population on things like the housing market, I'm ignoring the rule of law - "their first step into this country broke the law."
It's damned difficult to develop a cohesive plan when such orthodoxy prevents discussing the options.
Mike W| 2.1.13 @ 8:13AM
Can I assume you support Simpson-Mazolli in retrospect? For God's, Simpson-Mazolli was an un-mitigated disaster for the USA. It was Reagan's biggest mistake in that he trusted that border security piece would be done.
Amnesty 1986 was supposed to be for less than 2 million people. It turned out to be for over 5 million people and the resulting chain migration and births are what's driving the demographic change that elected and re-elected BO.
How a rational conservativer could support Simpson Mazolli and now Rubio amnesty, is beyond me.
John Navratil| 2.1.13 @ 9:40AM
Mike W,
As you say, the problem with Simpson-Mazolli was we never got the border secured. It was promised, just not delivered.
The current problem is completely of our making. We broke the immigration system when we started the lottery. We never responded to the economic demands of our economy, instead we instituted a prohibition with the same results as the drug war. I argued at the time that we needed a way to regularized the labor market with a visa which allowed working in the U.S. without a green card and the counter-argument was simply labor protection. Had we done so we could have had Mexican nationals crossing the border legally with the salutary effect that those crossing illegally were likely criminals who could not enter legally or drug carriers. Instead we get a shadow economy which rewards those who ignore the law.
We create the misuse of our welfare programs by, for example, requiring emergency rooms to treat without regard to ability to pay. We did that, not the illegal. When my son studied in Italy it was a requirement that he purchase health insurance in Italy. If we had a workable program we could do that, as well.
It's easy to say now with 8% unemployment (offically), but before this downturn when unemployment was under 5%, just what effect do you think removing 5% of the work force would have been. What would happen to housing when 3% of the population disappears? Consumption? Prices?
What we've got ain't working'! What do you suggest?
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 10:48AM
John Navritil.
Your Table is ready at Mr. Bowman's Tuesday Column.
Table for one.
Please, walk this way.
Dai Alanye | 2.1.13 @ 8:11PM
What rational business continues to order goods when inventory is overflowing? What rational nation continues to import a less-productive population when welfare costs are high? What rational military chooses to draft the least-patriotic segment of the manpower pool?
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 9:41AM
With all due respect: We don't have a "Broken Immigration System". And, anyone who thinks that way is part of the problem.
As with our Economic Status, where we don't have a Revenue Problem, we have a SPENDING Problem. Our "Immigration Policy" suffers more from a severe case of NON-ENFORCEMENT, than it does a lack of Cohesion or Intent.
We have been let down by the very people who SWEAR to Protect us. For decades they have turned their backs on our Sovereignty, in exchange for Contributions from Big Business needing Cheap Labour, and Bottom Feeding Politicians seeking more Takers who's Illegal Votes can be Bought off.
We have Immigration Laws. The Problem is with an Executive Branch who, after Illegally Arming Mexican Drug Cartel Members with High Powered Automatic Weapons? Now, wants to Look The Other Way, as they stroll across our Border with them, unmolested.
The poor bastards who work on the Border, actually had to take this Administration to Court, to be allowed to DO THEIR JOBS, unmolested by a Criminal Commander in Chief, and his Criminal Attorney General.
I know that I'm not as Smart as you. I like to go to Cape Cod, Misquamicut RI, and Six Flags New England for fun, while you enjoy the Finer things in life, even if you need 11 Defensive Innoculations before getting on the plane to go there, and a Mosquito Net Hat to wear when you arrive. But our Immigration isn't broken.
Our Government is.
John Navratil| 2.1.13 @ 10:36AM
TLP,
As I mentioned, on this topic I depart from the Party orthodoxy. There is a reason that Nikes and Apples are made elsewhere. If the lettuce farmer in Georgia can't get cost effective or, as recent examples show, ANY labor, the cost isn't just higher priced lettuce, it's lettuce grown in Monterrey instead of Georgia.
We had a bracero program for years which permitted such labor. We couldn't have fought World War II without such labor. Henry Ford built Detroit with such labor. We still have something of a program, except it is so small all the visas are consumed in the first week of January.
We DO have an enforcement problem - exacerbated by an uncontrolled border.
But, I respectfully submit I must be part of the problem as labor protection isn't a solution. I, for example, must compete with Indian programmers. No H1-B restrictions help me. On the contrary, I would like to see more of my competitors over here, paying U.S. taxes and hiring U.S. workers, than over there.
A continue to believe our immigration system is broken as it is driven by some misbegotten sense of diversity rather than sound economics. If it were not, we would permit the best and brightest from the world over to immigrate and we would address the labor issue in the bright light of day.
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 10:59AM
It's not driven by Diversity. It's being driven by a Democrat Party seeking Millions of New Voters to buy with lots of Free Stuff, courtesy of You and Me.
And,when that guy Walks across the Border with a Vial of Radioactive Particles and starts sprinkling it arounds in the Subways, or the Drinking Water, or in the Playgrounds. What will you say then?
When Achmed walks across with a Vial of Contagion that has no Cure? What will you say, then?
When he comes across the Border and MURDERS YOUR LOVED ONES IN COLD BLOOD!
Do you understand, now?
John Navratil| 2.1.13 @ 11:14AM
TLP,
Do not mistake my position for an open border advocate. I am not. That border needs to be secure for a number of reasons, security being the prime one.
All I'm saying is who we should let cross it. We have created an underground economy because of lax security coupled with a strong economic demand. Fix the border, then figure out what to do with those people here. I don't suspect you will ever know who is here if the consequence of coming out of the shadows is deportation. Also, I'm personally not prepared for a "papieren, bitte" state although, with e-Verify, we are arguable proceeding in that direction.
It's worthy of note that the only Achmed we have caught was coming in through Canada.
Bob K| 2.1.13 @ 11:31AM
Think about this.
The other day the Wilkes Barre Times-Leader newspaper in Pennsylvania featured an article in it interviewing 3 leaders from the Hispanic community in North East PA.
The Editor of the Spanish Language newspaper in Hazleton, PA was quoted as saying:
"REPUBLICANS HAD BETTER START LEARNING HOW TO SPEAK SPANISH."
So much for assimilation.
John Navratil| 2.1.13 @ 12:03PM
Bob K,
Who provides for multi-lingual voting? Who maintains separate classes for Spanish speakers? Who provides free care in the Emergency room?
Why, it's US! Who needs to assimilate?
I'm all for getting rid of these anti-cultural travesties? You want to sell Bud in Spanish - it's your business. You want to vote in Spanish - it's my business.
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 3:39PM
We could get rid of everything being printed in Spanish with a Class Action Lawsuit charging that only printing things in English and Spanish, violates the 14th Amendment.
This would Force them to print everything in EVERY LANGUAGE, which would Cost Billion$.
This Sh*t would Stop.
Apparently, Hispanics are Stupider than everybody else that comes to this Country.
Now, get over to Bowman's Column from Tuesday.
Chop Chop.
p.s. If paying more for Lettuce would stop this Invasion of our Country?
I'll gladly pay more for Lettuce.
Wouldn't you?
Job| 2.1.13 @ 3:35PM
laws of US are one kind of law but the law of Suppy and Demand is up there with thermodynamics; you really can't negotiate with it.
on another note were hollering "straw man, obfuscation," and sticking to the letter of the law and orthodox definitions and lose the discussion on Saturday Night Live and Colbert and other places where opinions are formed.
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 3:39PM
Contest.
Tuesday.
Bowman.
Job| 2.1.13 @ 4:31PM
I'll be there; i'm a slow reader... actually i'm still trying to think of somethin.
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 6:04PM
Just say nice things about me.
It couldn't hurt.
You'd probably Win.
pie-eyed piper| 2.2.13 @ 3:44PM
"A voter may be willing to re-examine her views on the economy . . . "
and "But nothing will change her unwillingness to associate with the Bigot Party. . . "
So are we men such nonentities now that writers only refer to women?
On another topic: A friend of mine who manufactures sensors that are buried in the ground along the border, to detect people walking across (especially at night), has told me that the Border Patrol has simply stopped replacing the batteries in the sensors when the gadgets need it. That way don't have to deal with border crossers, since with dead batteries they can no longer be detected. Out of sight, out of mind. This order came from higher-ups. Obviously the Obama administration has stopped enforcing the borders.
Rome also went down under a horde of ignorant invaders intent on getting at her treasury. We already have so many invaders here that Obama was easily reelected.
True Americans are now outnumbered and outvoted. This country is lost. Enjoy what's left of it while you can.
Bob K| 2.2.13 @ 10:18AM
There is another big reason why there has never been "Comprehensive" Immigration Reform which is hardly ever discussed. Another "orthodoxy" which prevents discussing options. It's called "Blame the Republican's First!"
The Unions are are against it.
Former Republicans, Neo-Cons, and Libertarians are particularly prone blame republicans for it--as you can see from this article--but I digress here.
Kimberly A. Strassel in her "Potomac Watch" column in Friday's WSJ discussed this in her article "Immigration's Poison Pill: Big Labor;" noting that "Unions have long used Democratic allies to kill any reform that includes a guest-worker program."
In 2005, she notes, Senator Obama was insistent that the Guest Worker program be removed from any reform bill and that he still is unwilling to do so. "The president deliberately excluded mention of a guest-worker program from both his speech and the White House's written immigration principles."
This is an issue of power through organizing to Unions.
"A guest-worker program...... is no use to Big Labor. Temporary workers are not open to union cards. ......they can only swell the ranks of certain industries, decreasing union power..... ."
We are spending the entire Ground Hogs Day weekend beating up on ourselves here, to the great joy of Democrats, without going on a counter attack against them! Come to think of it we do it every weekend. Just like in the movie!
Aristocat| 2.4.13 @ 5:44AM
You are 100% wrong, Ross.
I see Chuck U. Schumer, Dirty Dick Durbin, and Menendez the John up there....Anything they are for has to be bad for America...End of story...
Jack in Wi| 2.1.13 @ 6:40AM
Being for amnesty, gay marriage, and abortion is going to get the Republicans back in power? The reason we lost is because we didn't appeal to the ron paul libertarian branch of the party and the Palin pro-lifers. We ran a worthless pro-abortion, pro-homosexual, warmonger, chickenhawk. Romney could never articulate a coservative ideal if his life depended on it. Why should we bother to have a party with the kind of candidates we have been running since 1988?
Ross Kaminsky| 2.1.13 @ 9:29AM
I didn't say abortion, and I don't think the GOP needs to give up being anti-abortion to win. Gay issues are very different.
Jack in Wi| 2.1.13 @ 9:38AM
We treat gays like anyone else. Homosexual marriage and adoption are not popular issues in either the black or hispanic community. In fact in California they were the people who came ou tin droves to defeat gay marriage. It will never be gay and it will never be marriage. It is all about making the rest of us accept the perverse as normal and healthy. The Democrats are the party of war, homosexuaity, abortion, euthanasia, sky high taxes, bloated government, and the nanny state. Republicans have to be the opposite.
Purp| 2.1.13 @ 3:31PM
It doesn't matter what you think of African-Americans, Hispanic-Americans, women or Gay Americans - they are here and they all deserve EQUAL treatment under the law.
Religion can be bigoted if it chooses (and some do), but American law foundational principle is equality.
Democrats are the party of War? Republicans aren't? Huh?
Bloated Government? The Government is smaller now than under GW Bush or Ronald Reagan. Where's your brain?
As far as accepting gay people - you don't have to like brocolli to accept it in the grocery store. But other people are not you, and you don't have the right to dictate how others live.
If you're not gay, don't want to be, then don't be. Then stop obsessing about it. It has no effect on you, period.
Job| 2.1.13 @ 3:46PM
"Homosexual marriage and adoption are not popular issues in either the black or hispanic community"
yeah but they hold their nose and vote which shows that their vote isn't an endorcement.
We can learn something from this. The rigid point of view that says if your not with me your against me that paints a candidate and a party in a corner and after we've all said the Nicene Creed we can whine some more in 2016.
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 6:05PM
He's Gay.
Rhoetus| 2.1.13 @ 11:40PM
Why is whether someone is a homosexual or is not my business? Government in not a moral agent. Some of my closest friends are LBGT and I don't hold it against them. I do take umbrage to the folly of supporting fascism. Supporting Obama is cutting off one's nose to spite one's face.
aware| 2.1.13 @ 6:47AM
The State LOVES "reform". Short of "crisis" it's the best way to grow the State. "Reform" has to be implemented, which means creating the bureaucracies to implement. All Statists are "reformers" and always have been.
You admit the laws on the books are NOT being enforced, but then call for more "laws" to be added. How stupid can you be?
You'll try to shove this little fascist Rubio down our throats in '16 just as you tried with the banker stooge Romney. Don't you Charlie Brown "conservatives" ever tire of being on your backs, gasping for air, with Lucy's mocking laughter in your ears? I reckon not.
Moe Blotz| 2.1.13 @ 1:12PM
Are you aware that the best part of you ran down your mother's leg?
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 3:43PM
Contest.
Tuesday.
Bowman.
aware| 2.2.13 @ 8:34AM
I'm aware of Kaminsky being a globalist and doing his unwitting part in the New World Order. He's a "libertarian"(HA!), like you can be that AND love the State.
YOU are unaware that your way of life is slated for destruction. If you have a white collar job it will be outsourced. If it can't be, then hordes of unskilled illegals will be allowed in to drive down your wages.
I know programmers who laughed when we in construction warned in the 90s that they too would feel this. In fact one killed himself just before Christmas after 4 years of little work, and at 58 he didn't know what else to do. I had the unpleasant duty to cover his body and wait with his wife while she sobbed.
They will come for you too, Moe. With the full complicity of the State and its owners. The American middle class is the main impediment to global "governance" and must be eliminated. That's YOU, wise guy.
So keep scoffing in the midst of the Great Unraveling. Keep thinking members of the political class will save you because they are "conservative". And above all ignore the grip on your throat that keeps tightening even when "your" guys win farce "elections". Distractions will continue for those like you until disaster comes to your door.
Pecos Pete| 2.1.13 @ 7:46AM
Control the borders first then let's talk about how to resolve the issue of illegal aliens.
The problem with the current proposal is that, if the law is passed, there is NO real assurance that our borders will be controlled and protected. Thus, there would continue to be illegal aliens crossing the borders.
We already have immigration and border control laws. They are being either wholly or partially ignored. Enforce current laws, then we can talk.
As for the republican brand, you can't fix something that doesn't exist. The democrat PR machine has been successful in labeling republicans as bigoted, not the other way around. That is, republicans are not bigoted. Republicans have not passed bigoted laws. Republicans simply do not have a consistent PR campaign that states simply, and in a straight-forward manner, that their "brand" is freedom and liberty for all.
loulou| 2.1.13 @ 10:09AM
You're right--there is no brand except for the go along to get along ball-lessness that the GOP sees as kinder and gentler.
For some reason our "leaders" do not have a command of the English language. They simply cannot communicate effectively.
Rove, McConnell, etc. better wake up and get out of the way or 2016 will bring a loss of the House.
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 3:57PM
Have you guys been to The Contest, yet?
Mr. Bowman's Column from Tuesday.
Derek Leaberry| 2.1.13 @ 7:47AM
Ross Kaminsky's formula for Republican success is that the party should turn its back on conservatism and endorse social decadence. But why should any conservative care about politics reduced to surrender to modern liberalism?
The Republican Party is certainly the minority party right now, mostly due to the 1965 Immigration Act but ably assisted by the failed Bush presidency. But events and history change things all the time. In 1929, Democrats probably felt the same anguish as Republicans today. Al Smith's 1928 hiding was the third straight Republican presidential landslide and the Democrats seemed doomed to a long winter in the political wilderness. But the Depression led to a dramatic reversal and the Democrats would dominate politics for almost fifty years. Similarly, the current fiscal situation is unsustainable and will likely blow up in the Democrats' faces. Traumatic events tend to re-order politics.
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 10:01AM
Don't hate him just because he's stupid.
He just needs to get his mind right to the situation facing everyone who ISN'T a Self Employed Trader and Investor, and a Senior Fellow at the Heartland Institute, and had a Radio Show that nobody's ever heard of or listens to, and is a Snob who's never had a Callus in his or her life.
He has to make an exerted effort to run in to these people. For him, seeing an Illegal from the safety of his Limousine, is like the rest of us looking at a Bear, while driving through a National Park.
We have to LIVE with these people. They Rape, Rob, Beat, and Kill us. They Rape, Rob, Beat, and Kill our Kids. And, nobody says boo.
Get outta the Mansion, Ross. Get yourself an Apartment in downtown Bridgeport, Hartford, or Hamden Ct. and take in the ambiance of Life amongst the Illegals.
You can start by Parking your Car on the Street, overnight.
Then we'll talk.
loulou| 2.1.13 @ 10:14AM
Great post.
In the MidAdlantic illegals have trashed formerly middle class neighborhoods . Of course the amnesty crowd lives in gated communities in Fairfax and Loudoun Counties where the illegals tend to their lawns and pools.
Derek Leaberry| 2.1.13 @ 10:26AM
Ronald Reagan won Loudoun County in 1984 with 68 % of the vote. Mondale won 31 %. But the Third World vote has swept Obama to victory twice in Loudoun. You would think that the Republicans would learn but there are only a few things you can teach an elephant.
Derek Leaberry| 2.1.13 @ 10:23AM
In the Washington DC area, we have places that are no longer American. Langley Park. Riverdale. Bladensburg. Dale City. Woodbridge. Manassas. Yes, Manassas, site of two battles.
Ross Kaminsky| 2.1.13 @ 11:27AM
I lived in downtown Chicago, next to a horrible ghetto, and kept a loaded gun under my bed. Could hear gunshots from less than a mile away with some frequency.
I grew up in Southern California, where there were quite a lot of illegals. The only knife fight I ever saw in school (fortunately it didn't last long and nobody got very hurt) was between illegals.
An illegal alien murdered a friend of my sister's.
There is a big difference between an illegal alien and a violent criminal.
I drive a Volkswagen. Not sure where your limousine comment came from.
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 4:00PM
You know that I love you.
You're just wrong on this one.
Still Best Buddies?
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 4:02PM
The Limousine was a Metephor.
Maybe if you Vacated a little more Local, more often?
You'd have that Limousine.
Rhoetus| 2.1.13 @ 11:51PM
Ross: I worked in Compton for five years: 2000 to 2005. I would ride my mountain bike to work from my residence on S. Avalon Blvd, in Carson. In the 36 years that I lived in the Los Angeles area I've only heard gun fire at a range.
Ross Kaminsky| 2.2.13 @ 9:42AM
That is truly amazing. But then Chicago had very strict gun-control laws, which explains why the bad guys had (and still have) so many of them.
Rhoetus| 2.2.13 @ 11:17PM
Actually I always thought that it was perfectly normal; but I've never been to a public housing project either. I grew up in the San Fernando Valley but moved to Tucson, AZ in 1987.
KittyAmerica| 2.2.13 @ 5:20PM
Thanks for the realism. Ross Kaminsky calls us bigots( those of us who are trying to preserve our culture. Generally the people who want to transform the nation are sheltered from the results. When GW Bush left the Whitehouse he moved to the exclusive Preston Hollow area of Dallas. Nothing wrong with that if he weren't gleefully insisting that the rest of us live in West Dallas or North Oak Cliff.
CJW| 2.1.13 @ 7:49AM
Ross
Do you have any polling data that supports your opinion that the Republicans are seen as bigots and intolerant, and by what groups, excluding the usual lefty idiots represented by purpie.
Ross Kaminsky| 2.1.13 @ 9:40AM
As much anecdotal as data driven, but some stuff here:
http://www.theblaze.com/storie.....-suggests/
And here:
http://www.people-press.org/20.....8-or-2004/
includes this: "In 2004, Americans younger than 30 were divided (48% opposed, 45% favored). Today, young people favor gay marriage by more than two-to-one (65% to 30%)."
and this: "In contrast with opinions about gun control and gay marriage, public attitudes regarding abortion have changed relatively little in recent years."
Jack in Wi| 2.1.13 @ 11:27AM
Young people have been given vast amounts of homosexual propagada in the last decade. They will grow up to see what a farce it is. Homosexuality acceptance is nothing but further proof of a declining civilization. Bring on the Muslims. At least they have some respect for the laws of God and nature. The perverse are out to polute our young people and Ross here wants to help them. 50 million dead and 50 million sick are not enough.
RCV| 2.1.13 @ 11:42AM
"Bring on the Muslims" has been your mantra for quite some time, Jack.
John Navratil| 2.1.13 @ 2:04PM
RCV,
I've lived in Saudi Arabia. I'm just fine with them living there and not here.
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 4:04PM
He doesn't understand you.
Maybe, after they Blow Up one of his Loved Ones, he will.
Maybe.
Rhoetus| 2.1.13 @ 11:45PM
Jack in Wi: Yes they respect God that's why they advocate suicide, honor killings and terrorism. I'd rather kiss Barbra Streisand.
Purp| 2.2.13 @ 3:17PM
The Romans and Greeks accepted homosexuality, even promoted it... and the Greek Empire lasted 400 years, and the Roman over a 1000 years - kinda blows your whole theory to pieces doesn't it?
Why are you so anti-gay? Perhaps they are God's test of your own tolerance? Why else are they here - they don't reproduce, do they? But as a group they have been here for as long as we have been on Earth. You never wondered why? Never?
CJW| 2.1.13 @ 11:36AM
Thanks.
The polls suggest a libertarianism to oppose government intrusion or control on gun rights, abortion, marriage, and the economy somewhat. Sort of leave me alone, don't bother me. Republicans can attract this group by speaking and acting to limiting the government's power and involvement in your life.
The Dems do not speak to principle but to specifics such as gay marriage which will lead to further government intrusion in your life. Once you allow two of any gender to marry the next issue will be three or four persons, possibly to accomodate the muslims. So the government will be further defining a family and who can marry. Now it is simple, one man and one woman.
Purp| 2.2.13 @ 3:19PM
You are ridiculous. Passing laws to shove a vaginal ultrasound probe into a woman for no medical reason, except lawmakers say so is hardly "limited government".
You just want the government limited to what you want it to do. You're a hypocrite, CumJockey.
CJW| 2.3.13 @ 12:45PM
Purparnie the Village Idiot posted:
"Purp| 11.8.12 @ 10:35AM
1. "Hurricane Sandy and Chris Christie was the Lord's way of pressing his thumb on the scale to tilt in the direction of President Obama. It was His punishment of Republicans for their lying and trying to cheat (Voter Suppression) their way to political victory, while espousing faith, freedom and constitutional credentials."
2. purpie believes God killed over 100 persons and destroyed millions of dollars of property to help Obama win.
3. In Sept Purpie wrote that Amassador Stevens was at fault and caused his death.
4. Purpie also wrote that the unborn are biological entities not deserving of protection until God allows them to be born. (What does this mean?)
Purparnie represents the Loon Left that should be mocked and ridiculed, and not engaged in conversation
Purp| 2.2.13 @ 3:14PM
Apparently CumJockey is still stupid, even after an election where his bigots got trounced. Try the majority of Americans, dittohead.
CJW| 2.3.13 @ 12:45PM
Purparnie the Village Idiot posted:
"Purp| 11.8.12 @ 10:35AM
1. "Hurricane Sandy and Chris Christie was the Lord's way of pressing his thumb on the scale to tilt in the direction of President Obama. It was His punishment of Republicans for their lying and trying to cheat (Voter Suppression) their way to political victory, while espousing faith, freedom and constitutional credentials."
2. purpie believes God killed over 100 persons and destroyed millions of dollars of property to help Obama win.
3. In Sept Purpie wrote that Amassador Stevens was at fault and caused his death.
4. Purpie also wrote that the unborn are biological entities not deserving of protection until God allows them to be born. (What does this mean?)
Purparnie represents the Loon Left that should be mocked and ridiculed, and not engaged in conversation
R Martin| 2.1.13 @ 7:50AM
Mr. Kaminsky writes that some basic Republican tenets such as support for legal immigration, belief in the rule of law, opposition to killing unborn children and the practice of heterosexuality are perceived by a growing sector of the population as bigoted. He uses bigoted a lot.
What he does not write is how this perception evolved. He does not write that Democrat demagoguery, leftist educators and wildly biased media have pushed this perception and have communicated it successfully.
Those influences are still in place and they are not being challenged in any meaningful way by Republicans. Accordingly, to suggest that Republicans will somehow be perceived as “champions” by supporting a bi-partisan reform of immigration law seems quite a stretch. From bigots to champions in one fell swoop is just a tad gullible.
CJW| 2.1.13 @ 8:30AM
I agree. Too many Reps, let the Dems control the words and tone of the debate. They accuse the Reps of bigotry, racism, etc and the Reps, like McCain, try to please the Dems/MSM by accepting the Dems premises but offering more "sensible" solutions to whatever issue is under debate.
Quartermaster| 2.1.13 @ 8:31AM
This! kaminsky, in his usual way of confirming it, is an idiot. We already have an enforcement mechanism in place and it isn't being used. Rubio is simply pandering, and Juan McNasty McAmnesty is simply being his normal insane self.
What is being offered again stands foursquare against the rule of law and conservative principles. If kaminsky doesn't see that then he needs to forget that AmSpec even exists because he isn't a conservative. Alas, there is plenty of evidence that he is not.
Ross Kaminsky| 2.1.13 @ 9:41AM
Again, I did not mention abortion. That was intentional, as it is not part of the "intolerance" picture as I see it.
R Martin| 2.1.13 @ 9:54AM
I didn't mention abortion either, Mr. Kaminsky. I referred to killing unborn children. I would much prefer to read your comments on how the intolerance picture (as you define it among a large sector of the populace) will be affected by passage of the reform package at hand.
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 10:21AM
Remember. As much as I love Ross what's his name, he is not a Conservative.
He's a much younger Bill Kristol, with much less hair. He's a Thinker. (At least, he thinks he's a thinker) But he lacks any Street Cred in what he thinks he knows.
It's one thing to be Altruistic about things, when one is Jetting Off to Shangri La on Vacation, everytime one turns around.
It's another, to be Immersed in the Inevtibale Life Threatening Consequences that always Result when Democrat Politicians decide they're NOT GONNA ENFORCE THE LAW.
If those Thousand odd Dead Mexicans, killed by Democrats who BROKE THE LAW, and Trafficked Weapons to Drug Cartel Members, were still alive? I would suggest you ask them.
But they're dead.
So, you can't.
Go figure.
I'm not pickin on ya, but, seriously: You don't know what you're talking about, on this one.
Feel free to come to the Contest.
Nobody there knows what they're talking about, either.
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 10:24AM
That was for Ross.
Rickey Martin?
Shouldn't you be shakin it over at Bowman's by now?
Derek Leaberry| 2.1.13 @ 11:16AM
Ross is a libertarian but not of the Rothbard-Rockwell variety. I'd guess he's more the Virginia Postrel-Nick Gillespie variety.
Libertarians are generally correct on small government, the welfare state, taxation, fundamental rights and the welfare-warfare state. But they are culturally nihilistic to the point of not understanding that America sprang from a coalescence of European civilizations and cultures, including Christianity. They wouldn't understand why the Bill of Rights was developed in America and not China, the Empire of the Incas or Zululand. All people are interchangeable in the libertarian world if only they understood the ultimate truths of Ayn and Milton and Ludwig.
Libertarians tend to be unable to knit together coalitions because so many of their beliefs are absolute. Thus they rarely receive much more than one percent of the vote. Even the arguably successful Governor Gary Johnson was limited to the Libertarian base of one percent. And he was a far more successful governor than Mitt Romney.
The Republican Party is a knitting together of factions. One part of the coalition are social conservatives. Perhaps if the Republicans wish to take Ross' advice on social conservatives and boot them from the party, the Republicans can win again. I find the proposition dubious, however.
Ross Kaminsky| 2.1.13 @ 11:29AM
I am absolutely not a neo-con like Bill Kristol, nor would I say, as he did, "let the taxes go up on the rich."
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 4:09PM
I actually did say: Let them Raise the Taxes on he Rich, if it would save the Military Budget.
The Rich are Rich, for a reason.
They're Smart.
They will know how to get around this,
Even if it means going elsewhere, where they're Appreciated.
Friends?
Purp| 2.2.13 @ 3:21PM
No RM - it's that society has changed and you have not. You are being left behind and you don't know it.
Too bad, but that's YOUR problem, not America's.
The Republicans are just whores for votes - but we all see it and it won't work. They lose again and again and again.
donserge| 2.1.13 @ 7:54AM
"...perception of intolerance problem". You'll get a lot of flak for this column but I believe you have it right.....Republicans have not gotten the Jewish vote for the same reason.
ata777| 2.1.13 @ 7:58AM
what kaminsky is essentially saying is that republicans should abandon their principles because the lie about them being intolerant has repeated often enough that it has become the truth.
that's bad enough. but it's remarkable that THE essential reality regarding illegals is rarely discussed: how do we KNOW there are "only" 11 million of them? would your position change, ross, if there 25 million, or 30 million--all of whom could participate in the inevitable "family re-unification" process that would also be part of the equation?
when the numbers change, it's no longer an illegal immigration issue. it's a national character and national sovereignty issue.
R Martin| 2.1.13 @ 8:44AM
Whatever the numbers are, the national character has already been changed by unchecked, illegal Hispanic immigration. Pandering to that group is simply going to cement the change.
Ross Kaminsky| 2.1.13 @ 9:42AM
I am not a so-called conservative. I defy you to find an instance where I have defined myself as conservative. I am a libertarian, or more precisely an Objectivist.
I am not for illegal immigration. But our side has to come up with a real solution and not just whine about the numbers.
R Martin| 2.1.13 @ 9:49AM
So far the real solution has been--please press #1 to continue this conversation in English.
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 10:36AM
It's too late for Solutions.
We've had DECADES to Close the Border. There's no time left.
We're looking at a 21st Century Reenactment of the Great Land Rush. Only, this time we're the Indians, soon to be relegated to Reservations while everything that we Built Up over the Previous 200+ Years, will be Torn Down, and replaced by what one sees in Downtown Nuevo Laredo.
aware| 2.2.13 @ 11:54AM
Yeah, a house "libertarian". Not for nothing did Rothbard reject Objectivism. You have the same problem many "so called conservatives" have, you think the State can be turned from a career of crime if only we elect the "right" people.
If you're "not for illegal immigration" why do you support criminal politicians that are? Amnesty is approval of illegal immigration.
Mike W| 2.1.13 @ 8:08AM
Now I know why TAS has been largely silent on this meg-issue. So called conservatives like this blogger actually believe Hispanics will ever vote for them beyond the 40 percent mark. Insane.
You get what you pay and I pay nothing here at TAS so I have no claim to complain from that perspective.
Amnesty these 20 million people and at least 60 percent will vote Democrat. Through chain migration, 20 million will turn into 40 million over the next ten years. They will all be eligible for Obama Care. They will literally cost us trillions. There will be no GOP and probably no USA left at that point.
This is the issue of the day. Either you are with Senator Sessions and other heroes or you are with this blogger, that twerp Rubio and Obama.
Derek Leaberry| 2.1.13 @ 8:27AM
Look for the Cuban vote to trend Democrat. The affluent Cubans who fled Castro in the early 60s are dying out. They were the Cuban elite and they voted Republican. The later waves of Cuban refugees were much less affluent and are more likely to vote Democratic.
Quartermaster| 2.1.13 @ 8:34AM
That's exactly what is happening.
darcy| 2.1.13 @ 3:48PM
There's a more interesting article related to immigration and the Republican Party over at vdare today. Here's the link:
http://www.vdare.com/articles/.....ion-reform
The race to appear less bigoted (while shoring-up the establishment's hegemony over the Party) is a race to erase America altogether.
Hardcard| 2.1.13 @ 8:21AM
I think Rubio has shot himself in the foot, in the above photo of the crew on the podium we have mc cain, schumer, Rubio, and menendez. To my way of thinking if Rubio wanted to make a position statement for himself, whatever his position is he should never have aligned himself with these turds.
CJW| 2.1.13 @ 8:34AM
Good point. If he wants to be nominated he should stop agreeing with Chuckie Schumer on anything.
He should separate himself from McCain and Schumer and insist on securing the border before there is any discussion of what to do with the 11 million illegals. Rubio's ideas will get lost, water down, and misrepresented by associating himself with Schumer.
JimH| 2.1.13 @ 8:24AM
Are there bigots in the GOP? Certainly. But bigotry is not part of its history or institutionalized as it is with the Dems. What the GOP has to be clear about is that it stands for the rights of the individual. That it believes all ought to have the same rights and responsibilities under the law. It needs to support the market, not business, and not pander to any rent seeking special pleading interest groups.
Seek| 2.1.13 @ 8:30AM
Our immigration system is not "broken." It works whenever it's allowed to work; i.e., enforced. There is, however, a self-fulfilling prophecy: Those claiming the system to be broken are doing their best to break it, making deportations of illegals all but impossible.
Kaminsky ascribes the overriding motive of immigration restrictionists (like me) to "bigotry." The real motive is that we want a workable and unified nation, not explosive growth of separatist ethnic mini-nations, ever dependent on public assistance for support (a major reason why they come here). Kaminsky needs to rethink his assumptions.
Quartermaster| 2.1.13 @ 8:35AM
That's assuming he thinks. He often shows little evidence he has thought out the implications of what he posts. he occassionally gets something right, but it's not something to expect on a regular basis.
Ross Kaminsky| 2.1.13 @ 9:46AM
I do not ascribe bigotry to you as a motive. My point is that even though the other party is really the party of bigotry, it is too easy for the GOP to be portrayed as bigots by Dems and the media because of immigration and gay rights issues.
Drunken Sailor| 2.1.13 @ 11:18AM
Ross, I get what your saying. The perception is the GOP is bigoted and perception = reality in the minds of the low information voter. That is the cycle we must break. True, if this passes, we will most likely not win over many hispanics at first. But perhaps we will slow the loss of the young voters somewhat. As you stated, if you lose a voter at a young age, you most likely have lost them forever.
The problem as I see it is many conservatives are defensive about being promised something from the left only to be lied to. It has happend many times before and has stated over this issue during Regan.
The GOP must make the enforcement of border control the deal breaker. That is the only way this mess while even begin to be fixed.
Apparently I am in the minority but I see a immigration deal happening whether we like it or not. It is simple a matter of time. We need to get ahead of this thing and have it passed on our terms and at least attempt to get credit for it. If it passes it will be hard for the left to demonize the right over immigration when we authored the bill.
Ok, folks, attack me all you want. It's Friday and I really don't give a sh*t.
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 4:11PM
Contest at Mr. Bowman's Tuesday Column.
Get thee to The Contest!
Bill Hussein O'Stalin| 2.1.13 @ 8:38AM
An issue the Gang of 8 didn't address is who will pay for ignoring the law and who will pay once they are legalized? The amounts of money needed will be enormous.
It's a rhetorical question so don't get too excited.
It's now estimated that retirement costs alone to absorb this group will cost 2.5 trillion. That does not include other costs such as tax credits.
Here's how that works. It's estimated that over half the immigrants are high school drop outs. People who have a high school diploma get about $30,000 in tax credits and benefits while contributing $10,000 in income and consumption taxes. Those figures are from 2007.
In the meantime they will most likely get free health care while the rest of us pay.
It's an abomination and it's not about bringing them out of the shadows.
It's about extracting more money from you to make it happen. This is the extractor class at its finest.
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 4:13PM
Look at them!
They don't care.
cicero| 2.1.13 @ 8:45AM
Absolutely hilarious! The 30 - 39 age group went for the Dems because they were promised that Obama would, now that he has nationalized the student loan business, foregive their student debt that they have not been able to pay down because of the Obama economy. Free stuff.
The illegals don't particularly care about citizenship. They want to stay here for the work and the free stuff. I suggest that, as long as the government of Mexico shows their poor how to excape into the U.S., we should show our retirees how to escape to Mexico. That is only fair. While we have more jobs, they have a lower cost of living. While their poor are turning our elections into "gimme fests", our retirees could turn their elections into Tea Party parties. Now, that's open boarders.
The election had little to do with "perceptions". It had averything to do with a dumbed down voting demographic; a demographic that was promised free stuff if they voted Dem;, and a conservative demographic that couldn't get its act together, and coalesce around its candidate. He wasn't perfect, so they stayed home. Stupidity is its own reward.
MarkJeff| 2.1.13 @ 8:56AM
Just secure the darn borders and we can deal with the lllegals afterwards. Or better yet, just topple the corrupt Mexican government, take in its oil-rich nation, provinces, costlines and 70 million people as ours, and we'll not only become, like, the third largest territory on the planet, but we'll have a much easier time of it securing a much smaller border to Mexico's south! There, done! Much easier and less costly than our current fan-dance approaches!
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 4:13PM
Contest at Mr. Bowman's Tuesday Column.
Join us.
You won't be disappointed.
George S| 2.1.13 @ 9:03AM
Suppose we enact a new policy: when a burglar breaks into a house, he can stay there. We have to sympathize with his economic condition and cannot fault him because he broke the law. As we look out onto this bizarro landscape, we see that burglaries have risen sharply and we become alarmed at the prospect of what could happen to the communities inhabited by a rising burglar population. We demand action but the Ruling Class concludes that they could win the support of the burglars if a path to homeownership is established.
Good idea? Just do a little substitution and you change the tone of the entire article from thoughtful to... not so thoughtful.
PolishKnight| 2.1.13 @ 9:35AM
They aren't burglars. They're "undocumented" residents. Also, rape is "undocumented" sex.
PolishKnight| 2.1.13 @ 9:34AM
This is the way the left and their race/gender entitlement crowd think: The Right are a bunch of mean, hateful bigots because when a leftist goes over to their house, breaks in, and starts taking stuff and smashing things the Selfish Right wingers asks them to leave. Can you believe that? They're SOOOO selfish and hateful!
Another paradigm is that when right wingers suggest enforcing immigration laws, the left screeches that it's bigoted against Hispanics and racist and the right will lose the Hispanic vote. On the other hand, if the right says that Hispanics should respect immigration laws just as they do in Mexico, they scream it's racist to make such generalizations about Hispanics.
Best advice for the Republicans is: If you want to win elections, be "nice" and agree that the Democrats deserve to win, hand them a knife, and beg to have your throat cut. Then, you're sure to snag all those votes that will agree you're no longer bigoted!
No wonder the right is losing elections because the right even buys into this thinking half the time. John McAmnesty's daughter was angry with "conservatives" for not voting for him (hint: Maybe if you were less angry and entitled to votes and more willing to address your father's constituent's concerns, they might have showed up to vote for him.)
loulou| 2.1.13 @ 9:51AM
Ross Kaminsky: Why are you ignoring Rubio's eligibility issues? Do you think the Democrats will?
Ross Kaminsky| 2.1.13 @ 9:59AM
Rubio does not have an "eligibility issue." He was born in Miami, and there is no debate about that. Some on the fringe want to suggest that if his parents were here illegally, then he's not a citizen so not eligible.
I'm actually fine with changing the interpretation of the 14th Amendment to stop the tidal wave of anchor babies.
But you can't seriously think that Democrats would bring up this issue, can you?
Imagine this:
Hillary Clinton or Joe Biden or other Dem candidate: "Marco Rubio is a fine man, but he's not an American citizen because his parents came here illegally."
Marco Rubio: "Please tell that to the millions of first generation Americans, born here to illegal parents, whom you have always claimed to fully view as American and have always claimed to care about so much. Are you suggesting that they are not Americans?"
It would flip the immigration issue on its head. It would kill the Democrats.
Furthermore, as there is no question where Rubio was born, his "eligibility issue" does not exist. On the other hand, there were questions about where Obama was born, and it made absolutely no difference in the election.
So, the short answers to your questions:
I am ignoring the issue because there isn't one.
And yes, I think the Dems will ignore the non-issue as well.
loulou| 2.1.13 @ 10:16AM
You need to educate yourself. Rubio is not a "natural born US citizen". Consult with a lawyer.
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 10:41AM
I have heard the same that Ross has heard. That doesn't make it true. But then, even if it is True? That won't stop the Scumbag Party from saying that he's Ineligible, over and over and over and over and over, again.
Ross Kaminsky| 2.1.13 @ 11:40AM
TLP,
Putting aside for a moment how much you don't like my article today, and just thinking on the Rubio eligibility question:
Say he was born in the US to parents who were not here legally or at least not citizens.
Can you actually imagine the Scumbag Party trying to make an issue of that, given the implications for the millions of "anchor babies" they're counting on to vote Democrat???
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 4:17PM
Yes.
They have a Free Pass to say whatever they wanna say.
The Press will back him up, and his base is too Stupid to Separate the Truth from the lies.
Or, did you miss the last Election?
Ross Kaminsky| 2.1.13 @ 11:39AM
Loulou,
You have no idea what you are talking about.
Rubio was born in Florida. That means he is a natural born citizen under current law, regardless of the status of his parents at the time.
This is not complicated.
Furthermore, if you think that Democrats would really try to make an issue of this, you're out of your mind. They would turn Hispanics against them in droves.
http://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/misc/R42097.pdf
http://www.fredthompsonsameric.....-eligible/
RCV| 2.1.13 @ 11:47AM
You're the one who needs to educate yourself on this issue, loulou. There isn't a respected legal scholar in the country who accepts your interpretation of "natural born citizen," nor a court in the land which would find Rubio or Jindal ineligible. The irony, of course is, that both of them were born in this country, while your choice -- Ted Cruz -- was born in Canada.
CJW| 2.1.13 @ 12:35PM
Canada is one of the 57 states.
Pecos Pete| 2.1.13 @ 2:26PM
Would that make Mexico #51?
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 4:18PM
58.
John Navratil| 2.1.13 @ 1:45PM
loulou,
Article 1 of the 14th amendment begins....
"All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the state wherein they reside."
Even if Rubio were naturalized, that is he applied for citizenship which was granted, the only office he would be barred from is the Presidency.
PolishKnight| 2.1.13 @ 10:57AM
"Some on the fringe" would suggest that children of illegals shouldn't be eligible because that was the policy when it was written. Note the text:
"All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside."
Why the "subject to the jurisdiction thereof" clause? Answer is that the writers of the amendment even back then thought of this issue.
An illiterate, criminal class of invaders who define themselves by race and will soon demand welfare and special privileges view the church as a "community center" more than a place of worship.
All that said, however, eventually they're going to get citizenship one way or another. We should move on and address the welfare benefits and racism of the left that they use to secure the votes of non-whites.
Ross Kaminsky| 2.1.13 @ 11:44AM
To be clear, I would gladly reinterpret the 14th Amendment, and I also believe that the "jurisdiction" question offers a rational basis to deny citizenship to "anchor babies." I have written this in the past.
That said, there's no way it would be changed retroactively. And there's no way the Supreme Court would rule that those people are not citizens without the nation first amending the Constitution or at least passing a law defining jurisdiction.
The key to this discussion is to make sure, as you note, that they don't become instant drains on taxpayers.
And you are absolutely right that the racists in this country (and the anti-Semites too) are mostly Democrats.
DRed| 2.1.13 @ 2:00PM
An illegal alien within the United States is very clearly subject to the jurisdiciton of the United States.
PolishKnight| 2.1.13 @ 4:07PM
If someone inside the USA is automatically subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, then wouldn't that make the clause meaningless? Why bother putting it in if all people in the USA by definition are therefore subject to jurisdiction?
PolishKnight| 2.1.13 @ 4:15PM
Here's another word for "subject to jurisdiction". Ready?
LEGAL! That's what LEGAL literally means: "subject to jurisdiction".
When I run my car on my private property, I don't have to obey the rules of the road because it's my road. My jurisdiction. That's why NASCAR doesn't have a 55 mph speed limit. There never was an "anchor baby" right to citizenship. But then again, there never was a lot of things: McCarthyism. Or oppression of women. Or Dick Cheney "outing" Valery Plame. NONE OF THAT HAPPENED. It's all a narrative of the left similar to the legend of George Washington chopping down the cherry tree.
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 4:19PM
You're wasting your time.
He's an Idiot.
DRed| 2.1.13 @ 6:40PM
If you violated a federal law while on your own property a federal court would certainly have jurisdiction over you.
Ross Kaminsky| 2.2.13 @ 9:51AM
There is a legitimate debate about that. If someone is here without our government knowing, working without their knowing, hiding their identity and their location, are they really subject to the jurisdiction of the US?
DRed| 2.2.13 @ 12:12PM
I get what you're saying, but that would mean we couldn't prosecute illegal aliens for crimes they committed while in the US. By your definition, some Guatalmalan here illegally could murder two FBI agents and then claim that we had no power to prosecute him because he wasn't subject to the jurisidiction of the United States at the time he commited his crime. I think we'd agree that's absurd.
In any event, when it comes to citizenship, the 14th Amendment applies to the child (all persons born), not to the parents.
PolishKnight| 2.1.13 @ 4:01PM
The whole Democrat special interest consensus is made up of various groups that, like the Orcs in Lord of the Rings, would quickly turn upon each other without a common enemy (white, working and middle class males) so sure, there are probably plenty of anti-semites along with those who would like to shove women back into the kitchen barefoot. These are, after all, increasingly third worlder foreigners who don't share the same values of western Europe and are even taught to embrace their origin culture.
Anyways... whenever a constitutional amendment is drafted the language's interpretation is written up by various court decisions of the time and this is used in future supreme court interpretations. For example, if the so-called equal rights amendment had passed, it would have been intepreted to mean equal 'rights' for women without full responsibilities such as the draft, unisex bathrooms, etc. as defined by feminist judges of the time.
In any case, the leftist judges like politicians will simply write whatever they feel like without regard for what the document says. Reality is the way they define it. Have a good weekend and Shabbat!!!
PolishKnight| 2.1.13 @ 4:05PM
I'm chuckling to myself because even if a constitutional amendment was passed that said in big bold letters: "Illegal alien anchor babies born in the USA to illegal alien parents are not granted automatic citizenship", you could bet your last deflated dollar that the leftist SC justices would say that there's room in the language to still grant the illegal's children citizenship and the news media would herald the inability of "bigots" to write constitutional amendments.
This is what happened in California with proposition 187 and other amendments where the judges simply said that they didn't mean what they literally said and ignored them and the media chuckled that the laws weren't "written well" so that's why the judges struck them down.
The only "law" they recognize, ironically, is that at the point of a gun where even as the gnash their teeth over school shootings they overlook the millions of children murdered by governments with guns.
Ross Kaminsky| 2.1.13 @ 9:53AM
I want to reemphasize to you commenters who are not very happy with me that I think there should be a way to deal with immigration so that we have to give in on what some people consider principles less than what the left has to give on theirs. Politics is about what is possible, not what is optimal.
As for gay issues, I realize this is not what my conservative Christian friends may believe, but I suggest that at the very least this should be a state, not federal issue. And while I understand the objection to gay "marriage", I think that supporting civil unions, i.e. a contract between two people who happen to be of the same gender, shouldn't be that difficult for most Republicans.
Rejecting civil unions was a large reason that Republicans lost the majority in the Colorado State House of Representatives in 2012. There were Republicans supporting it but idiot leadership used tactical tricks to prevent a vote because they knew it would pass.
Now they're out of the majority, and many out of their seats in the legislature.
I also want to make very clear, again, that I did not suggest that the GOP give up being anti-abortion.
A mistake is made by those of either party, or in the media, who lump all social issues together in terms of their political impact.
Ross Kaminsky| 2.1.13 @ 9:53AM
Also, I wanted to say:
Thanks for listening. I knew this article would not sit well with quite a few of you. For those of you who suggest I haven't thought about this much, I would simply say that's not true. I've thought about it more than any other overarching political theme since the election. You and I may disagree, but it's not because I just woke up one day and pulled some half-baked idea out of thin air (to mix metaphors.)
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 10:46AM
And, what should we do for all of the people who ARE going about their Immigration the Right Way. The ones Filling out the Paperwork. The ones Following the Rules. The ones WAITING THEIR TURN!
What say you, to them?
Ross Kaminsky| 2.1.13 @ 11:46AM
I saw they are in front of every illegal who gets in line via whatever legislation passes.
Really the key to this is believable enforcement so that the moral hazard created doesn't just cause another 10 million illegals to come here, as happened after Reagan was fooled.
Without credible enforcement FIRST, no reform may be better than reform.
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 4:22PM
What you just said, is completely at odds with what you wrote in your article.
As far as the people that I mentioned?
They're taking it up you know where, and you know it.
Friends?
Rhoetus| 2.2.13 @ 11:32PM
Ross: Although my mother's family came here from England in the 1700's, my father came over on a boat with his mother when he was 6 in 1914 from Austria-Hungry.
Our problems stem from government's control over our daily life as well as the economy. I'm for any measure that removes taxes and regulations from my life and the private sector of our economy.
R Martin| 2.1.13 @ 3:46PM
And thank you, Mr. Kaminsky, for writing. Many here raise legitimate issues with some of your positions, but your stuff is still read, enjoyed and debated. And a special thanks for responding, civilly, to some of the comments—unlike some of your TAS colleagues who write about celebrity and are obsessed with their own position in that hierarchy.
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 4:23PM
Stop sucking up to him, and get over to The Contest and start sucking up to Me, if you know what's good for you.
Bill Hussein O'Stalin| 2.1.13 @ 10:28AM
Ok. Then explain to us how this will be paid for?
I did not think that those who did not buy flood insurance should have received compensation after Sandy but that's what's happening.
The Republicans fired off a drum roll and claimed there should be offsets to pay for it and those people are for the most part American citizens.
Why are there no offsets for this monstrosity? Low ball estimates start at 2.5 trillion and rise from there.
Doctor Right| 2.1.13 @ 11:07AM
There IS a way to "deal with immigration," Ross.
It's called "The Law." And it's REALLY not that difficult:
1. Secure the border
2. End chain-migration
3. End the "anchor-baby" law that allows children born in the USA to become automatic citizens
4. Deport ALL those who enter the country illegally
5. STOP providing "free" services to illegal immigrants
6. Severely penalize businesses that knowingly hire illegal immigrants
The Left is using illegal immigration as a cudgel to gain millions of perpetual Democrat votes. They are balkanizing the country and bankrupting local, state, and federal budgets.
We Conservatives are DAMN sick and tired of "compromise." To the Left (and to squishy Moderates), compromise means bending over and giving the Left what they want, but getting good press for doing so.
Sorry. Not playing that game anymore.
Anyone who supports anything other than strict enforcement of current laws (and some of the changes I outlined above) needs to be booted out of office at the next cycle - and that includes Rubio.
Rubio is cynically positioning himself for 2016. He knows that Obama will NEVER agree to really secure the border; therefore, Rubio has his "out" in the vote, and can claim "Well, I tried."
And what if Obama agrees??? It doesn't really matter, because Obama is a liar, and Rubio knows that Obama is a liar. That allows Rubio to vote "Yes," but claim that he was duped by Obama's lies.
Either way, it's a win for Rubio - and a loss for the country.
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 4:28PM
And, just like that, Doctor Demento hits a Home Run.
Go figure.
Ya know, you can still come back to The Contest.
You're earlier Entries went over quite well, actually.
Just remember: We're there to have fun. We always bury the Hatchet on Fridays.
You actually, got good grades for what you wrote. With Me, leading the Praises.
Come back.
You are totally Welcome.
Drunken Sailor| 2.1.13 @ 4:45PM
OK, who smacked TLP upside the head. His being nice to DR. Right? What in the hell is this world coming to?
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 6:11PM
It's Friday.
TLP| 2.1.13 @ 6:13PM
And, his entries were actually pretty funny.
As opposed to YOURS.
John Navratil| 2.1.13 @ 4:40PM
Doctor Right,
I was born to a refugee father who was granted a temporary visa after the war to complete his law degree. My mother was English and came to America on a visa and married my father. At the end of his studies, immigration wanted to send Dad back to Czechoslovakia where he would be lucky to share a cell with his politically imprisoned brother who had the good fortune to spend from 1948 to 1964 living rent-free as a guest of the Commies.
England does not permit citizenship through the mother. Were I not American, by birth, I suppose I would be Czech and would have spent my growing up years with a mother who spoke no Czech behind the Iron Curtain.
That would not have benefited me or, given the taxes I pay, the U.S. Glad it didn't turn out that way.
My father was eventually naturalized by Act of Congress. However, I and my brother would already have been Czech. Unscramble that omelette for me, please.
John Navratil| 2.1.13 @ 4:43PM
Doctor Right,
PS. It was illegal to leave Czechoslovakia after the Commies closed the borders. That's what got my uncle imprisoned for 16 years - he got caught, but Dad swam the Danube past the gun rafts into Austria.
It seems to me that not everything which is illegal is morally wrong. Victor Hugo wrote a great book on the topic.
Rhoetus| 2.2.13 @ 11:39PM
Mr. Navratil: When corruption is built into the laws of a nation, law is no longer moral. What is moral, ethical and legal are not mutually inclusive. I would be happy to speak with you sometime. My father was born in Cigelka, Slovakia and was Carpatho-Rusyn.
PolishKnight| 2.1.13 @ 11:19AM
I agree with you, Ross, that the right needs to look at things in terms of winning elections but I would add doing so both in the short and long term. Trying pander to a racist, invading electorate is about as useless as fretting over gay marriage. The big issues that win both in the short and long term are the marriage penalty, welfare reform, and reverse racism and sexism against white males. When Romney barely mentioned that Obama was handing out welfare extension waivers to the states the left freaked out because this is a class issue they know they'll lose. The same with the left's racist entitlement programs for non-white males. Their rational is that it's not really "racist" since white males are "privileged" and "racist" so it's ok. But they are good at hiding that chauvanistic thinking from rube voters in swing states such as Ohio and Pennsylvania.
But sure, if the Republican party falls because it refuses to address those core issues above then there will be a taxpayer subsidized abortion clinic on every corner and the left will come for our guns and then they'll come for the wealthy white guys like Romney with 50% per year property taxes. Then maybe they'll care.
holmegm| 2.1.13 @ 10:33AM
When a "perception" is a smear, scurrying around acting like it is true is not a good way to handle it.
We are not the bigots. We believe that *all* people of all hues are capable of understanding right and wrong, and of understanding that tab A goes into slot B.
fmm| 2.1.13 @ 11:04AM
If there were stiff penalties included for not becoming self supporting citizens within a reasonable time frame, including not being able to vote for this same period, along with no welfare provisions for converted illegals, then I could agree with your position. Such restrictions would show compassion and support for the rule of law. However, allowing illegals to get a get-out=of-jail-free card is not acceptable. The other concern I have is the inability of the federal government to actually administrate such a complex program. It is more than likely that the program will be abandoned in the near future in favor of perks for those in office.
Job| 2.1.13 @ 5:44PM
"including not being able to vote for this same period, along with no welfare provisions for converted illegals" hmm some variation on this idea has merit.
Doctor Right| 2.1.13 @ 11:09AM
I would NEVER stand on any stage and lock arms with Chuck Shumer on anything.
EVER.
If Shumer likes something, then you know it's a bad idea.
Drunken Sailor| 2.1.13 @ 11:23AM
Hard to argue with that.
Ross Kaminsky| 2.1.13 @ 11:47AM
I hear ya on that. Schumer and Durbin wouldn't be doing this if they didn't think it was a loser for the GOP.
It doesn't have to be a loser for the GOP, but the party has repeatedly shown itself able to make anything into a loser, so it's rather frightening.
kurt2022| 2.1.13 @ 11:25AM
I unfortunatly have AOL and they are tied in with HuffPo, I recently read many of the comments on immigration there and was shocked. The majority of the comments were against amnesty. The younger generation has found that getting a decent job is very hard to come by! They also know that another amnesty means lower wages for most of them! So Mr Kaminsky, their are also many, so called bigots on the left! Cheap labor for the right and votes for the left, and the majority working in the lower and middle class are the ones that get screwed! I saw that type of comment many times, on of all sites, the bigoted HuffPo! The majority of Americans, right or left, DO NOT WANT AMNESTY...PERIOD!
hoads| 2.1.13 @ 3:42PM
BINGO!!! The facts are the majority of Americans are against defacto amnesty but are overshadowed by the majority of our media and political class--especially blacks, unions and legal immigrants!!! And yet, Republicans -precisely because they are still dominated by Establishment Republicans--have never attempted to exploit that potential coalition.
Guimo| 2.1.13 @ 11:30AM
Sorry, Ross Kaminsky. I'm almost 70 years old and have near-native fluency in Spanish with cultural ties to the latino community in my town. Rubio's plan won't work. Latinos will never vote Republican no matter how much we pander to them.
Ross Kaminsky| 2.2.13 @ 9:58AM
Guimo,
I think you're sorta missing my point. The immigration issue is part of a picture being painted of Republicans which doesn't just keep Latinos from voting GOP, but apparently Asians and some substantial number of young (white) voters as well. That's what I tried to say repeatedly: this is not just about the Hispanics.
Who Knows?| 2.1.13 @ 11:37AM
“The GOP doesn’t have an immigration problem, it has a perception-of-intolerance problem.”
So, you’re damned if you do, and damned if you don’t.
Chuck Schumer and Barack Obama have a winning hand, and they aren’t like wimpy Republicans, in that they will definitely continue to play to maximize their takings. And, make no mistake about it, they are all about—TAKING.
Some things are black and white, and baby cakes, you can’t get more “down to earth” than with this whole illegal immigration trip.
Just build the damn fence! Why, even the Romans, starting in 122 AD, were able to build Hadrian’s Wall, and man it with soldiers to keep the “barbarians” out. And, almost 2,000 years later, a rich America has failed to control its southern border?
That means, de facto, boundaries are shit.
Years ago---I’m old enough to remember the whole 1986 debate enchilada that ended with NO BORDER FENCE, and YES AMNESTY---I was pissed about the way the Democrats broke the law. There are many solutions---
My own idealistic one---pretend America is being invaded by existential enemies, say German soldiers during WW II. Right NOW, put as many National Guard soldiers at the border, and snatch as many people as possible. Simultaneously, seriously look for illegal aliens already in the country, and catch them as well.
Then, put THEM to work, building the fence, and when done, throw them out!
nathan| 2.1.13 @ 11:41AM
Ross: Let's look at what you said:
Anyone who would step foot on a “path to citizenship” would do so behind those who had applied through the usual legal process, after paying taxes and fines, and, critically,
"do so behind". Really? Take a naturalized American from the Philippines who today files a petition for one of their siblings. That sibling probably won't get an immigrant visa for around 15 years or more? The same for several other countries including Mexico. So tell me sir, are you and the senator saying that at the time the bill passes, if it ever does, that all these illegals are going to go to the back of THAT line? That they don't get residence status until THOSE people do? I mean for those people it would 15+ years to get the greencard then another 5 to get citizenship. So based on current immigration law which no one is seriously talking about changing about 20 years minimum. REALLY? And if we don't put them to the back of the LONGEST line sir, then we're being unfair to those that are in that line and telling THOSE people that they are dumb for not doing whatever is necessary to cross the border illegally and take advantage of the amnesty. And you REALLY think the border control is going to be in place? Reagan had how many years after he signed the 86 amnesty to build that fence/wall? He didn't do it nor did republican presidents who followed him. So what makes any of you think it will happen now? Bigotry indeed folks.
Ross Kaminsky| 2.1.13 @ 11:49AM
Frankly, Nathan, I don't know. It's a fine question. We can't let hard questions make us say there's no answer. And we can't say that the answer has to be perfect or we will lose the country to Democrats in a way that will make Obamacare look like a drop in the bucket.
nathan| 2.1.13 @ 1:35PM
Sir: Have you read Pat Buchanan's column today on this subject? If so maybe you can tell your reader's why he's wrong and you're right. He makes for compelling reading. Just a suggestion sir.
jdondet| 2.1.13 @ 11:54AM
Why not vote for the Democrats? They are strong and determined, most of all they are winning. All I see from the GOP is wishy washy talk. Why not vote for someone, who unabashedly stands for something they believe in, instead of someone who is as changeable as the weather?
If the GOP is doomed as a minority party at least let it stand for something. Not surrender like this article and Senator Rubio's amnesty plan, "but oh, people will like us if we just lay down."
Once someone is getting the goodies, how does one kick them off? Answer, you cannot! Look to California for an answer for outreach to Democratic voters. California is lost to the GOP, do you want to replicate this nationwide?
Note, the new lion of the senate, Chuck Schumer has already put the hit on border security, so much for outreach. Thus puts the lie to the whole idea of this article and Senator Rubio's plan.
N8tivTxn| 2.1.13 @ 12:19PM
Perception problem?
Who came up with this "Gang" nomenclature? The name, "Gang of Eight" itself puts off law abiding, constitution-supporting, "rule of law" types, NO matter the previous records of the participants.
Allowing Loser McLoon on that stage is monuMENTAL mistake number 1 through 4... then we get to the meat...
LOL, WHO will tell him he can't stand with them?
Republicans will never curb the steamrolling PR initiatives against them with their current sniveling, knee-jerk reactions to the aggressive Alynskites.
PRO-active, NOT RE-active might be refreshing.
Rubio & Friends were days ahead of the Left's machine - when they needed to be months or years.
I have come to think that Limbaugh has been marginalized past ineffectiveness. His contribution over the last couple of decades allowed the (R)s to become lethargic, and now they seem addled, unsure and wary of where to turn for PR, as he wasn't always completely kind
Immigration? The failure of the current, ignored (by both sides) law is usurpation of the assimilation clauses. Formerly immigrants were seriously discouraged from "clustering".
The 80's touchy-feely, fascination for multi-culti diversity killed the assimilation concept, and is finally paying off for the Left.
JD| 2.1.13 @ 12:25PM
Ross is correct in stating that the Republican party suffers from (false) perceptions of bigotry. He is right in saying that Rubio's proposal isn't as much like "amnesty" as past proposals.
However, as others have said, the perception of bigotry and the liars who fuel it will not diminish if Republicans embrace this "immigration reform". Its only achievement will be to add to welfare rolls and to give legal voting rights to many of those who believe the tales of Republican bigotry. And finally, the problem of illegal aliens entering America will not be diminished by a proposal that does nothing to address it.
Mike W| 2.1.13 @ 12:39PM
You are a bigot and a xenophobe if you oppose the importion of 20 million people that don't speak your language,don't share your culture and will be a multi trillion dollar drain on the tax payer.
Rachel Maddow could not have said it better.
Kurt NY| 2.1.13 @ 1:52PM
Gotta disagree. First, regardless of the vote on this issue, no one is going to change their mind about the Republican Party being a bunch of mindless bigots or not. Those who believe that already will not be dissuaded and those amenable to that argument are pretty immune to counter argument on that anyway.
As for the taxes, fees, and waiting list for citizenship, they're all meaningless fluff designed to camouflage surrender - everyone of the illegals will be allowed to stay here permanently and their kids will be American citizens. The vast majority of which will vote Democratic at least for another generation.
There is no compelling reason in terms of national interest for us to do this. And doing so will secure electoral ascendancy for the Democrats for decades to boot. The measure is a disaster in the making.
Cats1cowboy| 2.1.13 @ 2:44PM
The biggest problem is that immigration is not broken and doesn't need to be reformed. It needs to be enforced.
Butch| 2.1.13 @ 3:35PM
In my humble opinion, our immigration policy--even before King O--has been bassackwards all my adult life. There are all kinds of Eastern European and high South American (e.g., Chilean) college students--fluent English speakers, in useful programs, undergraduate and graduate, who love this place and assimilate readily and willingly, who are desperate to stay here, and who cannot. We should make it a chip shot for these people to immigrate. They will be thorough-going Americans in their own lifetime, with no question about their kids.
And look who we prioritize instead: unskilled non-English speaking lawbreakers who have no desire--and no intention--to assimilate, and who moreover are coming here for welfare benefits. Heather Mac Donald over at NR has documented that latter quite well. For those who do want to work, a guest-worker program with no hope for citizenship--for them or for any kids born here--will suffice. For the welfare-riders, no welfare without citizenship, and they will leave. Assimilable immigrants only, please. For the rest, we don't need no stinkin' gangs.
Purp| 2.1.13 @ 3:35PM
It's really quite simple. The Republican Party are whores for votes and principles mean nothing.
They caved on the fiscal cliff, the debt ceiling and they will bend over for immigration amnesty. They have no choice ... they have no b**ls to stand up for their convictions - because they don't have any.
Gun control, Gay rights, Climate changes - they will cave on it all. They have to. And spin, spin, spin as they do.
Spineless jellyfish in the Republican party. Conservadums will go along - they have no other choice.
Have a nice day.
PolishKnight| 2.1.13 @ 4:36PM
Purp, come now, if the Republican party really were whores who had no principles and gave the left whatever they wanted... then you wouldn't be here trolling and taunting us as being the source of all the world's problems, yes?
Oh, wait, in a way... you're right. Obama is largely doing what GWB did because GWB was already moderate/left leaning to begin with and Obama just took it to the next level. But Obama's economic policies don't work so he blames the problems on GWB. The left are in charge but they're never responsible.
And that's what conservativism is: being response-able. Without us, you're living in Mexico City or Detroit and you know it. Instead, you're in your mother's basement cheering on the left getting to feel more than insignificant. Howz that going?
Get a girlfriend.
Purp| 2.1.13 @ 5:08PM
Like I said - you have no choice and ragging on me doesn't change that your Elected Officials are wussies, no spine, no b**ls.
You have not disputed or countered that. Thank you for confirming what I already knew.
You must comply, you will comply. So just bend over for your boyfriend.
I'm great! Couldn't be better! I am responsible, caring, generous (they do go together, just not in the Conservadum world), with a great life.
I put up with your Conservadum ideology for years, and now it's your turn.
How does it feel to have America against you and what you stand for? It sux to be you... doesn't it?
Maybe next time your side is in charge, you won't be so condescending and just plain nasty.
You get back what you give out pal, so take it like a man and stop whining all the time.
CJW| 2.1.13 @ 5:44PM
Purparnie the Village Idiot posted:
"Purp| 11.8.12 @ 10:35AM
1. "Hurricane Sandy and Chris Christie was the Lord's way of pressing his thumb on the scale to tilt in the direction of President Obama. It was His punishment of Republicans for their lying and trying to cheat (Voter Suppression) their way to political victory, while espousing faith, freedom and constitutional credentials."
2. purpie believes God killed over 100 persons and destroyed millions of dollars of property to help Obama win.
3. In Sept Purpie wrote that Amassador Stevens was at fault and caused his death.
4. Purpie also wrote that the unborn are biological entities not deserving of protection until God allows them to be born. (What does this mean?)
Purparnie represents the Loon Left that should be mocked and ridiculed, and not engaged in conversation
Jane Chingo| 2.1.13 @ 4:49PM
Are you insane? You think immigration reform is about getting voters for the Republican party? Immigration reform is about enforcing the law and the quality of life in America. The Republican party is not the benchmark for what's good for America. How is this bigoted? I don't care if illegal aliens are pink unicorns from the planet Tasty. Illegal is illegal.
Jack London| 2.1.13 @ 4:55PM
Meanwhile back in the real world, Obama has been deporting illegals at a higher rate than Bush, and the overall number of illegals has fallen under Obama. Where is this 'uncontrolled immigration'?
Purp| 2.1.13 @ 5:09PM
You're right Jack - it's a figment of their Right-Wing agenda of bigotry and hatred.
CJW| 2.1.13 @ 5:45PM
Purparnie the Village Idiot posted:
"Purp| 11.8.12 @ 10:35AM
1. "Hurricane Sandy and Chris Christie was the Lord's way of pressing his thumb on the scale to tilt in the direction of President Obama. It was His punishment of Republicans for their lying and trying to cheat (Voter Suppression) their way to political victory, while espousing faith, freedom and constitutional credentials."
2. purpie believes God killed over 100 persons and destroyed millions of dollars of property to help Obama win.
3. In Sept Purpie wrote that Amassador Stevens was at fault and caused his death.
4. Purpie also wrote that the unborn are biological entities not deserving of protection until God allows them to be born. (What does this mean?)
Purparnie represents the Loon Left that should be mocked and ridiculed, and not engaged in conversation
JD| 2.1.13 @ 5:22PM
If Leftist could cite honest statistics, they would not be Leftists.
Changing the way deportations are counted lets you cook the numbers:
http://www.nationalreview.com/.....-krikorian
Purp| 2.1.13 @ 6:38PM
From "National Review"? Hahahaha ... the authoritative source - NOT.
Freak| 2.1.13 @ 7:29PM
I am an immigrant.
I am an hispanic immigrant.
I entered the United States legally when I was twelve years old.
My parents applied for legal residence and we waited a long time for notification at the local US consulate.
We were herded through a complex process, and I only remember bits of it, but it included a medical exam in which I was required to strip naked and be examined in detail.
Once we arrived, the US was incredibly welcoming. I mastered the English language, excelled in high school, attended a top 5 US college, got a law degree, and have been doing well ever since.
I am grateful for what the US has given me. I gave back and served the US Navy as an officer.
Amnesty, or anything like it, demeans me, and it demeans what my family went through in respect of the country we CHOSE to be citizens of.
The Republican party needs to embrace morality. Its positions need to be driven by the right thing to do. Immigration is broken when the best and brightest in the world who would love to come to our country and contribute to its strength are being turned back, while others breach the borders, thrive for minimal value added work, and then are given the same rights I had to earn.
Why is this view even remotely associated with bigotry?
axbucxdu| 2.1.13 @ 11:31PM
My father, his family, and my wife obeyed U.S. law, entered the country legally, and then became U.S. citizens. Others must do the same. No exceptions.
Teflon93 | 2.2.13 @ 7:58AM
What a weak sister Kaminsky is.
If Americans see Republicans as bigots for daring to ask that our laws be enforced WITHOUT regard to race, creed, or ethnicity, imagine how they would feel had the GOP been the party of slavery, Jim Crow, and the Ku Klux Klan.
Whoops---Americans seem to vote Democrat just fine regardless.
Kaminsky needs to get out more.
7-08| 2.2.13 @ 9:39AM
Everything you state is hypothetically correct. What you miss, as well as most pundits here is these representatives lie for a living. The gang of eight, or seven, or twenty three always fold. They fold so often, with such rapidity, and with such conclusiveness that taking anything they say at face value is ludicrous. This is why many are skeptical; what you said and what they said may have syntax, but definitively it WILL be amnesty; so why mince words. As to bigotry, the MSM will report it as such no matter the context.
Most migrants, that is the proper word by the way - immigrates implies rules regulation and borders, none of which are in effect, are hard working individuals. They came here to work, some to send money “home” some to acquire a home. One is good, the other is bad, and neither deserves the granting of amnesty. Human misery is like water with unrestricted flow (borders); it will seek its own level. We are currently drowning, worrying about someone referring to the result as “bloated corpse” or “challenged swimmer” accomplishes nothing.
Stevemmn| 2.2.13 @ 10:08AM
It is sad that people like Kaminsky have caved on illegal immigration. Kaminsky worries about how Republicans will be percieved by Hispanics if they don't give in on immigration. He obviously has a poor understanding of history.
Republicans have already passed amnesty bills, Reagan did in 1986. When it comes to gaining, or not losing Hispanic votes, it got them ABSOLULTELY NOTHING. Passing an amnesty bill now will not help them any more than the other attempts to pander to the open borders crowd.
justinquiring| 2.2.13 @ 12:08PM
Mr. Kaminsky misses a few points. The cost of illegal aliens to the working class wage and the cost to our states. First I live in CA where Mexicans are known for gang activity and drug dealing. They receive lots of welfare benefits including section 8 housing vouchers, medicaid, schooling, instate college tuition, Pew grant priority, jail housing, and sending home billions to Mexico courtesy of USPS. This costs EACH CA taxpayer $1200 per year. Their illegitimate birth rate is 52%, high school graduation 40% and college graduation even worse. What is there about this person that necessitates citizenship.
They disrespect our laws and their attitude continues during their residency fueled by Mexican consuls screaming discrimination if we try to enforce our laws. TRY doing this in MEXICO, Mr. Kaminsky.
For the working class U.S. citizen, the lowered wage of illegal aliens working for less and for cash has been costly. Over the decades, it may have reduced w c wages as much as 50%. These facts were taken from Heather McDonald's book, "The Immigration Solution" and the numbers are from 2004.
fwb| 2.2.13 @ 12:44PM
Lets talk about amnesty to the thousands of Jews who were denied entry to the US in 1939/1940 and other years.
The persons violate our law. These persons are NOT top notch folks. They are the dregs of society south of the border. If the voters can't get their heads out because of this issue, then those voters are not law-abiding persons. If they allow for the violation of this law, they will willingly violate other laws.
Cool Hand Luke| 2.2.13 @ 1:54PM
Remember this guy from his days at HE. Still as Libertarian as ever.
Libertarians have no use for a nation's tradition,
language or culture.
They ridicule those who want to keep in place a society that has served its citizens for many generations.
Open borders is really their belief and all people should come and go as they please.
Mexico has given us its unwanted folks and they end up on the dole dependent on the government.
If you like the way California looks, then by all means support this open borders and change the look of the country for good.
And don't hold your breath waiting for Hispanics to come running to the Republican party.
Alex Feltham | 2.3.13 @ 2:25PM
On the subject of immigration, you guys in America have had it pretty easy so far.
Over in Britain they are locking people up now for simply objecting to the PC immigration meme.
There's a great article on it called: Unacceptable Radical" at:
http://john-moloney.blogspot.com/
Rhoetus| 2.3.13 @ 8:10PM
Damn shocking and an sad commentary on the Political status-quo of our time.
danshanteal| 2.4.13 @ 4:50PM
I respect your work but disagree with your conclusion. It'll take one maybe two generations (15-30 years) to get the illegals thinking like you and me. We could be dead by that time and in the interim the Demos will control the latinos like they do the blacks. So start the ball rolling by holding a national census of illegals to see what the big picture is. Then close the count and let no other illegls apply. Then pare down the eligible number to a five million or so. We are in a post industrial world where the economy won't accommodate the numbers like the old days. Even the college grads will find it tough going. Those less fortunate will get left behind. One last thought. Think of what the latino community is going to get from the Demos when the black community is getting the back of the hand and worse.
BobSledd| 2.4.13 @ 8:43PM
We have 15 million unemployed Americans
We have over a 15% unemployment rate for Black Americans.
We educate the WORLD at our most prestigious Institutions at the expense of brilliant American kids.
No other nation does this. NONE.
We are committing National suicide by allowing illegals entry, and by granting valuable seats at princeton,Harvard, you name it, to foreigners.
Staple Green cards to Diplomas?
How about this? Educate our own kids...
The Republicans are placing HOPE over Experience by thinking that Latinos will vote for them..Grant 11 to 20 million Illegals Legal status, and we will ensure massive Democratic National victories for generations, as they WILL vote for Democrats. The Democrats have to be laughing at the 4 repubs on the gang of 8. They are playing RIGHT INTO their hands.. I make no apologies. Americans come 1st.
Keep putting foreigners ahead of Americans, and you will LOSE Native American born voters and you STILL won't get the Latino votes. Recent immigrants (from most countries)have NO INTEREST in assimilating. We are committing cultural suicide.