Saturday, January 29, 2011

Senate Proposal Would Amend Constitution

A Senate proposal introduced by Rand Paul (R-KY) and David Vitter (R-LA) would amend the constitution to prohibit children of illegal immigrants from gaining automatic citizenship unless certain conditions are met.

Under current U.S. law anyone born on U.S. soil is automatically a citizen.  The new proposal would require that children born on our soil would only become automatic citizens if one parent is a citizen, a LEGAL immigrant, or an active member of the military.  Children could also go through the usual path to citizenship if they are not granted automatic citizenship.

The Republicans have a great point, and polling conducted shortly after the 2010 midterms showed that the measure is popular with voters.  There will definitely be push-back from immigrant lobbying groups and of course the left who will be hopping mad at excluding what they believe to be future Democrat voters.

Rand Paul wrote in a statement:  "Citizenship is a privilege, and only those who respect our immigration laws should be allowed to enjoy its benefits."

I completely agree.  These "anchor babies" should not be rewarded for their family breaking the law.  A quick google search reveals that "anchor baby" is a common term, and a concept known to many illegals who are considering illegally immigrating to this country.

I would like to be on record stating that I am all for LEGAL immigration.  We will always welcome skilled people into this country and those wanting to achieve the American Dream.  But deciding that the line is just too long when it comes to applying for legal citizenship or a legal visa is simply unacceptable.  As Arizona and Texas have seen, illegals place a huge burden on social services once they are here if they fail to find work.  Numerous emergency rooms on the southern border have had to shut down because of laws requiring them to treat all patients.  The problem is most of these illegals never pay a dime, and that is just one of many examples.

The left likes to argue that many illegals actually pay taxes and contribute to our economy.  That may be true in some cases but in most it's simply not true.  I would hate to have the goal of achieving the American Dream be destroyed for those here legally simply because someone wants to jump the line.

And there is also this to consider:  http://notadriveby.com/?p=38

The border needs to be secured as soon as possible.  This proposed amendment will come under fire as racist, and bigoted, but it is simply one piece of the puzzle to ensuring our national security and making sure that those here legally are able to achieve their goals.



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