Immigration A Top Issue — For GOP Only

CBS' Kathy Frankovic: Issue Is Top Domestic Concern Of Many Republican Primary Voters

(CBS)  By Kathy Frankovic, CBS News' director of surveys.

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Looking only at overall poll results can sometimes hide major differences in the way groups view issues. Many of those differences are partisan — like the huge gap between Republicans and Democrats in support for the war in Iraq. But sometimes those differences go deeper, and what is happening within a party can matter politically.

In the most recent CBS News/New York Times Poll, Republicans, Democrats and independents differed little on some specifics of the immigration reform bill that is now being debated in Congress. Immigration is one of very few current issues that don't show partisan polarization. Most in both parties said they favored a guest worker program and supported a path to citizenship for illegal immigrants, while recognizing that illegal immigration as a very serious concern.

But many Republicans in Congress are having a difficult time with the proposed legislation, and the poll suggests why — and why immigration reform may really matter only in the GOP's presidential selection process next year.

Iraq is still the big issue for both parties' voters: In the latest poll, more than one in three Democratic primary voters (registered voters who say they will vote in a Democratic primary or caucus next year) volunteered the war in Iraq as the country's most important problem (37 percent), followed by health care at 7 percent and gas prices at 6 percent. Nothing else — not immigration, not even terrorism, was named by more than 3 percent of Democrats.

Republican primary voters, however, rank issues differently. Iraq is still No. 1 for them, but at 21 percent it's much less often volunteered than it is by Democratic primary voters. Four other issues are each mentioned by one in 10 primary voters — immigration (11 percent), gas prices (9 percent), terrorism and security (9 percent), and religious and moral values (9 percent).

But the party difference is even starker when voters are asked about four specific domestic issues. We asked which of the following issues the President and Congress should concentrate on now: reducing taxes, making health insurance available to all Americans, strengthening immigration laws, or promoting traditional values? For Democratic voters, there is no contest. One issue — health care — dominates. Seventy-two percent name health care availability, and just 12 percent say strengthening immigration laws should be the priority. Even fewer — not even one Democratic voter in 10 — say the dominant issue is taxes or values.

But on the Republican side, immigration dominates. Forty percent of Republican primary voters choose strengthening immigration laws as their chief domestic issue. Twenty-four percent choose values, 22 percent health care availability, 12 percent taxes.

Immigration, therefore, is really a Republican issue now. And those four in 10 Republican primary voters who care about strengthening immigration laws have more negative feelings about immigration and immigrants than do other Republicans. For example, among those who see strengthening immigration as the most important domestic issue:

Fifty-eight percent believe that people now coming to the United States will in the long run make American society worse. Most other Republican voter say recent immigrants eventually will make U.S. society better.

Nearly two thirds (65 percent) say illegal immigrants are more likely than others to commit crimes. Fewer than half the rest of Republican voters think that.

Fifty-eight percent want to deport all illegal immigrants, even those who have lived and worked in the U.S. for two years. Only about a third of other Republican voters agree.

This group of Republican primary voters also supports construction of a fence along the U.S.-Mexico border. Compared with other Republican voters, they are more likely to believe that illegal immigrants take jobs away from Americans, and are more likely to want even legal immigration decreased.

This anti-immigrant segment of the Republican Party is not limited to any one region, although it is less of a concern among Midwesterners. There are more men than women in this group. These voters are almost as conservative as the very conservative group who cite traditional values as their primary concern.

Many of the Republicans now running for president, including former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, hold positions similar to the Republican voters who care about immigration. But some favor less punitive measures. Arizona Sen. John McCain, one of the co-sponsors of the current bill, could be particularly vulnerable on immigration with those Republican voters who care the most about the issue. Although Rudy Giuliani has criticized the current bill, as Mayor of New York City he took a softer stand on immigration.

The immigration issue hasn't had an impact on Republican voters' preferences yet. In the CBS News/New York Times poll, Giuliani leads among those Republican primary voters who said immigration was their most important domestic priority — and by about the same margin as Giuliani enjoys among all Republican voters.

But, of course, all that could change. Our poll explains why the Democratic candidates are spending their time talking about health care —and why so many Republican voters are waiting to hear more about immigration from their party's candidates.



By Kathleen Frankovic
© MMVII, CBS Interactive Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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by fastfredy1 May 30, 2007 1:08 PM PDT

The illegal immigrants currently living in this country are not the people America needs. Predominately hispanic, the majority come from Latin and South America, primarily Mexico. They were raised in a culture in which corruption is an accepted fact of life. A dishonest politician, civil servant, or a corrupt cop is the norm, not the exception. Consequently, they have no respect for the law as evidenced by their illegal entry into this country.
You've been told they pay taxes, obey the law, and take the jobs that Americans won't. Sorry, but my experience has been the opposite. They'll mow lawns and they'll pick lettuce, but they won't stay there long. Checked the label on the fruits and veggies you've been buying lately? How many of those products actually came from South America? Personally, I'll pay more for fruits and vegetables to have 'em picked by an American that's earning a living wage. And when's the last time you asked a neighborhood kid to mow your lawn? He's not getting the $5 or $10 you got as a kid. I don't know of any cheap lawn service, so I don't accept their cries of 'poverty'.

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by May 30, 2007 1:10 PM PDT

Illeagle should punished not rewarded.

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by fastfredy1 May 30, 2007 1:11 PM PDT

These people don't want to be Americans - they want to be foreigners living in America, earning an American living, having their bills paid by someone else, yet still expecting to have a say in how this country's governed. They don't want to learn English - instead they think you should be required to learn their language. Fire one, even in an 'at will' state such as Utah, and the EEOC folks will call. It was because they're hispanic and you're prejudiced, not because they were incompetent, constantly late, or called in sick at least once a week. They've no intention of trying to assimilate into our culture. The only reason anyone in America should celebrate Cinco del Mayo is because it recalls one more occasion when somebody kicked the *** out of the French; it's no more a part of our heritage than Boxing Day or Rose Monday.

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by fastfredy1 May 30, 2007 1:15 PM PDT

I cannot adequately express the outrage felt by my associates, my friends, my family, or myself at this latest travesty of legislation being launched out of Washington. For decades the legislators in Washington have done nothing to stem the flood of criminals crossing our Southern Border. That is the only legitimate label that can be applied to these people.....to willfully, knowingly break the law makes one "a criminal.%u201D The current laws have not been enforced. When apprehended these criminals are released on a foolish assumption they will return for trial and deportation.

The only solution now advanced is to give these criminals a "Get out of Jail Free" card! A "congratulations folks, you%u2019ve made it to the Promised Land!!" Now, go get all your family and friends and bring them over here for more free lunch; all on the backs of the American taxpayer. The only viable explanation has to be to enhance the political posturing of the Parties%u2026%u2026..it can in no way be construed as benefiting this Nation, its culture, or its traditions. Enforce the laws already on the books! We don%u2019t need more political deforestation with such a waste of paper. Why do we need amnesty for felons!

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by hypnotoad72 May 30, 2007 1:19 PM PDT

Fastfredy1 - I agree entirely; from both your messages. Unfortunately, morality and ethics often take the side road the instant somebody can find a way to make money from doing the opposite - as in rewarding negative behavior.

The same goes for offshoring jobs involving IP; then the corporations start whining we need piracy laws. Looking at the stats; the US is nowhere near the countries with the worst problems. Yet more laws are being staged for the US (fine and dandy) except the rest of the world isn't following suit. Surely by now, the costs of piracy would have rendered keeping all the jobs here in America as being the less costly thing to do?

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by hypnotoad72 May 30, 2007 1:23 PM PDT

Addendum/clarification: Especially when the countries we offshore the IP jobs to happen to have the HIGHEST piracy rates...

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by fastfredy1 May 30, 2007 1:31 PM PDT

I have no problem with an individual coming to this country for a better life....as long as they are coming to become an American citizen after learning the language, the laws, the system, and earning the privilege. However, what is being proposed now is a blanket give away of this Nation. To assume it is not is unrealistic in the extreme. Amnesty is the only title that can be applied to this legislation. This act will, in effect, steal the legacy of all who have worked, fought, and died to make this Nation great and will destroy the birthright of our children. The results of this bill will have rewarded the criminal and punished the law abiding citizens of this country.

Those portions of this bill that I%u2019ve seen or heard about show that the general population of US citizens are the ones who will bear the brunt of inconvenience and loss of liberty. This bill as far as I and we are concerned is nothing more than the continuing rape of the Constitution which seems to be the sole function of the majority of the bureaucrats inside the DC beltway. If it is not, why is there such a rush to enact it before anyone can publicly and seriously study its content. Those who choose to support this legislation will be individuals who will have violated their oath %u2026%u2026.%u201Dto support and defend%u201D %u2026%u2026%u201Dand bear true faith and allegiance.

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by peter776-2009 May 30, 2007 1:41 PM PDT

When you have a moron incapable of thinking through the big fog inside his head sitting at the helm of government, this kind of messed-up crazy legislation results. Only a few unscrupulous greedy businessmen will benefit from this bill, at literally everyone else's expense. I cannot recall a greater debacle ever being foisted on the American people than this bill. What's the big rush? So King George can say he got something "important" done before leaving office? There are much larger interests at stake here than Georgie's overweening fragile ego, LIKE THE AMERICAN PEOPLE'S INTERESTS. This kind of legislation needs to be put on hold until the next President takes office. Meanwhile I'D LIKE TO SEE OUR COUNTRY'S IMMIGRATION LAWS ENFORCED, THE BORDER SEALED AND ILLEGAL ALIENS DEPORTED AND DENIED ALL BENEFITS, INCLUDING EDUCATION.

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by skyk-2009 May 30, 2007 1:45 PM PDT

LOL It would seem that the Fascist are out of step with the rest of the nation BIG TIME!!

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by dan9111 May 30, 2007 2:20 PM PDT

This nonsense about "sealing borders" and keeping out the foreigners is hypocrisy. We can't even get politicians to respect our own private property. They can only take and regulate, and then take and regulate more. The GOP does it too, but with a special flavor of insanity (false-patriotism).

So the GOP is now to have us believe that borders are sacrosanct? The more the borders are trespassed upon, and the more we see taxes levied and "patriot" laws enacted, the more we can see the two are exactly the same. They are both acts of aggression against property. The next tea party ought to be with Mexicans at our side and politicians of every party thrown in the harbor.

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by tucano2 May 30, 2007 2:32 PM PDT

Not just for the GOP. A Democrat since 1960 and a Jack Kennedy supporter I am disgusted with Teddy Kennedy. His brother must be spinning in his grave.

Amnesty by any other name is AMNESTY. This proposal intends to reward criminals with the object of their crime. This is typical Bush Administration "My way or the highway", if one does not agree with Mr. Bush one must therefore be some kind of subversive. The subversives are those criminals who have invaded our country, and the traitors who support them whether in the Senate or in some church or other providing aid and comfort to them while still enjoying tax-exempt status. What is it about ILLEGAL Mr. Bush and the drones in the Senate will not understand about ILLEGAL ALIENS?



Americans know in their gut Mr. Bush and the drones in the Senate are selling out the USA.
This is the most massive Corporate Welfare piece of Pork ever considered by Congress. It should be rejected with hostility.

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by infidel_us May 30, 2007 2:41 PM PDT

Mr. Bush, you are every bit a disappointment as your father was to me back in his day. It's amnesty.....quit being a 'tool' and just admit it.

If the repubs AND dems band together, it won't matter what the hispaincs do. If they hate both parties and stay home, so much the better.

Seal the border.
Harsh fines for businesses who hire illegals.
Cut off all federal funding for sanctuary cities.
Catch and deport.

Eventually, most will self deport. Better get in step with the American people.

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by cpaide May 30, 2007 2:52 PM PDT

Stop citing a bogus poll as evidence of anything. Calling a 1,200 person phone poll a "random survey" of Americans is lame, and CBS should be ashamed.

Any good newswriter would be embarrassed to cite this poll in a story--unless we're talking about ENTERTAINMENT rather than news or research.

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by lorinkundert May 30, 2007 3:09 PM PDT

Polls are useless since they are the easiest data to manipulate by selecting demographic areas that match the desired result of the pollster.

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by trueusa-2009 May 30, 2007 3:17 PM PDT

Everyone should go to the CSPAN web site and read the draft of this bill. I can understand not reading every word but read at least half of it and you will see how really stupid this President thinks we are. He is trying to take the power away from DOJ (Immigration) and turn it over to Homeland Security for one thing and we all know how successful that will be. Of course that is where all his buddies are, less illegals getting deported is what he is looking for. The expense of having all these poorly educated folks latch on to our already overburdened social programs is unthinkable and believe me they will because they cannot afford to live on the low wage jobs they will take from Americans. We the blue collar and regular Joe's will be paying for everything as usual while these folks just believe that somehow we owe them. They do not have to learn English, keep their property clean, obey our traffic rules, or any of our laws for that matter because they have already broken them and have been rewarded for it welcome to America!

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by gkc99 May 30, 2007 3:48 PM PDT

"This is the most massive Corporate Welfare piece of Pork ever considered by Congress. It should be rejected with hostility."

More massive than the huge tax giveaway by the Neocon Republiscum to the thousand richest people in the USA? At a time of exploding deficits due to an optional war?

Strange how the folks who were applauding the rip-off, or were quiet as little mice, are all up in arms about this.

Maybe--the tax giveaway was to white people, and the Mexicans are browner?

Maybe--Bushit isn't following the unwritten rules of the White Right?

Wonder why?

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by infidel_us May 30, 2007 4:17 PM PDT

If their news dept is run like their survey dept, it's no wonder CBS news runs dead LAST!

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by tylenol6 May 30, 2007 4:22 PM PDT

Don't listen to CBS or ABC!!!! There always seem
to be articles written as though most of the American people are for this immigration bill. Most americans know all these illegals will put a BIG strain on our programs such as medicare, medicaid and social security. I guess we can forget about getting any social security. WHY don't big businesses go over to Mexico??? I am sure they will get lots of people applying for jobs. Then maybe we can ship Bush and Cheney over there and they can take the idiots in Congress with them to Mexico. Besides, Bush and Cheney
would love Mexico....THEY HAVE OIL!!!

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by nickdaytona May 30, 2007 4:27 PM PDT

Kathy Francovic, the author, is intellectually dishonest. And, she%u2019s a blatant, leftwing propagandist.

Firstly, to refer to voters who oppose this bill as "anti-immigrant" is silly: we are anti-ILLEGAL immigration. Notice that by dropping the key term ILLEGAL, she avoids a discussion about enforcing the law.

Secondly, notice how cunningly she attributes opposition to racism, simply by changing the term immigration to immigrant. As if this is about the people, not the existing law.

Being a legal-immigrant myself, it%u2019s counterintuitive that I would be anti-immigrant. I just expect my country to enforce the laws that I obeyed. This country has a tradition of accepting immigrants who apply legally, while the bill before congress destroys this tradition. In my opinion, it%u2019s to bring in a new crop of grateful and easily manipulated voters%u2014that%u2019s why both Rs and Ds love this bill.

Lastly, she%u2019s citing an opinion poll about what people think the facts might be, not showing the actual scientific facts, such as: fact 1--illegals ARE proven likely to commit more crime (simply being here is the first strike), fact 2--the law not opinion dictates deportation, fact 3--we don%u2019t need to pass a new law, just enforce the ones that exist already. The problem is that we are not enforcing the law!

It would be perfectly appropriate for Kathy to change her title to the CBS Chief of Intellectually Dishonest Propoganda. What do ya think?

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by infidel_us May 30, 2007 4:35 PM PDT

It would be perfectly appropriate for Kathy to change her title to the CBS Chief of Intellectually Dishonest Propoganda. What do ya think?
Posted by NickDaytona at 04:27 PM : May 30, 2007

I think you're 100% RIGHT ON! Nicely done!

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by terry12312 May 30, 2007 4:52 PM PDT

It is a bald face lie to state that Illegal Immigration is a problem for only Republicans.

It is a problem for Democrats. And Independents.

It is a problem for ALL Americans.

Period.

Like Pavlov's dogs, we are being conditioned to accept what is wrong: the Amnesty of Illegal Aliens.

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by wazoomac May 30, 2007 5:22 PM PDT

We need this bill in America. There is a long way to go, but at least it's something. Right now, employers don't have a way to verify that a person is legal... and if they ask people who "look illegal" for further identification, then they're sued for discrimination. Don't punish the employers until there is a better way to make sure all employees are legal. I really don't think most of us in America (who are working) want our employers to go out of business for these kind of mistakes. We need a working system.

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by Razzl May 30, 2007 5:42 PM PDT

Well, fear, paranoia, ignorance, and xenophobia are the building blocks of conservatism, so is it any surprise that the Republicans seem to have the franchise when it comes to these types of people? The only morally correct stand for any Republican legislator who is not a racist nut themself is to ignore or talk down the lunatics and refuse to do their bidding. Every Republican presidential candidate who cozies up to the extremist element in their party guarantees their own defeat in the general election.

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by michmad2 May 30, 2007 6:08 PM PDT

"U.S. surrenders to 12 million illegal aliens"! There was a first amnesty, now a second amnesty, so people mark your calendars - there will be a third, a fourth ... This nation was built as a nation of laws, now it is no more than a loosely held coalition of special interest militias who have learned the lessons of street power that Hitler used in the ascendancy of his Third Reich. The leftist liberals and their militants won. It did not take much, a few demonstrations and a very supportive media is all it took for the once great nation of the U.S.A. to capitulate. The politicians who swore to uphold the law and the Constitution are accountable. And law abiding citizens who kept quiet must now speak or forever keep your mouth shut. The appeasement brigade has scored a tactical victory but we can stop this surrender if you rise now and say "Enough!". The real fight has just begun.

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by rharrin1 May 30, 2007 6:42 PM PDT

On tv this last week a grower said americans would not take the job ( picking onions ) for 20.00 per hour.
I say put ad in paper 20.00 per hour to pick onions and you wouldn't have enough fields to put them in.

It's bs they don't pay anywhere near 20.00 the guy was probably republican thinking everybody would believe a stupid remark like that.

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by starleo146 May 30, 2007 6:44 PM PDT

If someone called me and asked ,"Are you for Immigration",I would probably say," yes ", but whoever is calling I would also say,"I am against illegal immigration. No they do not ask the way they should so the polls are not worth 2 cents. I have written to the speaker and told her that by passing that Iraq funding Bill the democrats have 1 strike against them and they better not vote for this immigration bill. I tell you this country is going to h#*%in a hand basket I know I said it before but i will say it again. I think the message better get to them once more.

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by starleo146 May 30, 2007 6:57 PM PDT

you know i have been thinking this so I might as well say it just throw it out there. Knowing the democrats and how they go for the little guy I bet all the Republicans vote against this so the democrats will look bad the only thing that stands in my way is big business I know they want this as well and the lobby hitting Wash.D.C. are the Big Business guys so I don't think the little guy in America will win Just the Illegals WILL WIN. I am probably wrong but honestly Homeland security also wants to do away with the dept. that deals with immigrants and put it under homeland security they couldn't even track a T B guy he got across canada to the U S they couldn't even find the guy.

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by omega39-2009 May 30, 2007 7:26 PM PDT

On tv this last week a grower said americans would not take the job ( picking onions ) for 20.00 per hour.
I say put ad in paper 20.00 per hour to pick onions and you wouldn't have enough fields to put them in.

It's bs they don't pay anywhere near 20.00 the guy was probably republican thinking everybody would believe a stupid remark like that.
Posted by rharrin1

Rharrin1, I saw the report and had the same thought, in the same story did you see there is also a provision to let in 1.2 million agricultural workers? It makes one wonder where the 600,000 "guest workers" they want are planning to work and what jobs "Americans don't want" that they will be filling.

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by susanhelit May 30, 2007 7:46 PM PDT

It's not GOP only. I don't want this bill to pass, I want our borders secure, and illegal immigrants (and their employers) treated like the criminals they are. And I'm a die hard, campaign contributing, proud Democrat!

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by bill1fj May 30, 2007 8:11 PM PDT

It seems to me that many businesses are using the cheap labor of the illegals to undercut legal workers pay.
I voted for a Democratic Representative, Tim Walz, in the last election. If he votes for any form of amnesty for illegals I will not vote for him again.
Right here in his district companies hire illegals and use the cheap labor to take jobs away from citizens.
No Amnesty. Deport the illegals.(Yes it can be done). Fine and/or jail anyone that hires illegals. Any illegal caught here should be deported and banned from the U.S.
Thank You

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by omega39-2009 May 30, 2007 8:44 PM PDT

CBS reported the huge Iraqi refuge problem and so far, since the war started, only 535 have been allowed to come here. Under pressure from Congress and the international community, big hearted Bush has agreed to let in 59 more. We destroy their country and tell them to F.O., yet, big hearted Bush wants 12 million Mexicans. I guess the Iraqis won't work cheap enough.

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by frankinaz May 30, 2007 9:27 PM PDT

The problem with this bill is that it does not go far enough to end the incentives to illegal immigrants. For example, it is still not a crime to enter this country illegally, and the "Anchor Baby" law won't change, so the incentive for illegal immigrant pregnant women is still there for them to deliver their babies here. They will still receive education for their children, health and medical care in many hospitals, obtain housing, and in certain states, driver's licenses, car ownership, in-state college tuition in ten states, and business licenses virtually within all fifty states. Therefore, when the incentives to illegal immigrants are removed, along with their ability to stay in the U. S., the problem should begin to go away, along with the drain on taxpayer money, Federal, state, and local resources.

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by cpaide May 30, 2007 11:51 PM PDT

The only morally correct stand for any Republican legislator who is not a racist nut themself is to ignore or talk down the lunatics and refuse to do their bidding.

Posted by razzl

I agree! They should talk down the ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT LUNATIC SUPPORTERS and refuse to do their bidding. Instead, they must do what is right for America and VOTE AGAINST AMNESTY FOR 12 to 20 MILLION ILLEGALS.

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by peter776-2009 May 31, 2007 12:03 AM PDT

Frankinaz said: The problem with this bill is that it does not go far enough to end the incentives to illegal immigrants. For example, it is still not a crime to enter this country illegally, and the "Anchor Baby" law won't change, so the incentive for illegal immigrant pregnant women is still there for them to deliver their babies here. They will still receive education for their children, health and medical care in many hospitals, obtain housing, and in certain states, driver's licenses, car ownership, in-state college tuition in ten states, and business licenses virtually within all fifty states. Therefore, when the incentives to illegal immigrants are removed, along with their ability to stay in the U. S., the problem should begin to go away, along with the drain on taxpayer money, Federal, state, and local resources.

Completely correct! It astonishes me that there is so little discussion of this elephant-in-the-room issue. There is literally no country on Earth, other than the US, that would be foolish enough to permit so many of its valuable resources and taxpayer dollars to be gobbled up by illegal aliens. We need to wise up FAST and change our laws to deny all benefits, of ANY kind, to illegal aliens, including drop-baby citizenship.

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by bellal-2009 May 31, 2007 12:22 AM PDT

"This anti-immigrant segment of the Republican Party is not limited to any one region"


It's anti-illegal immigrant, Kathy Francovic. HELLO.

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by bellal-2009 May 31, 2007 12:26 AM PDT

" not immigration, not even terrorism, was named by more than 3 percent of Democrats"


Wow, that's amazing.

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by bellal-2009 May 31, 2007 12:29 AM PDT

Americans don't want their wages diluted any more with illegal cheap labor. The Democrats have become the big business party and have abandoned their base, working Americans, for masses of migrant foreign national labor. It's sickening.

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by sparks224 May 31, 2007 12:32 AM PDT

The Republican delema: How to let the cheap labor in while pretending to care about border security.

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by coffeehead-2009 May 31, 2007 5:07 AM PDT

I also think the media is trying to stir the pot AGAIN for the next election.

I am a die hard demo also... or was~~~~~~

NAFTA was designed in the first bush administration via the Reagan admin. - it was finalized by Clinton. It is a disaster to our country but a windfall for corporations.
It forced countries to STOP producing certain exports in areas and to increase in others.
Mexico forced it's agricultural interest in corn to cease. It put 6% of their workforce out of jobs and thus - the mass immigration that continued with the demise of sections of their farming. It is NOT a party wall - it is an AMERICAN issue. It is also a taxpayer issue since every dollar of pay they receive they will burden the taxpayers (both dems and repubs.) -
one dollar of cheap labor pay will reap the "new citizens" 1.50 of "old citizens" tax dollars in benefits. And THAT is just the ticket to the demise of an already over burdened segment of our country - the middle class

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by reel-crazy May 31, 2007 7:22 AM PDT

It would be refreshing to see CBS do an HONEST poll online concerning immigration. And not via those annoying popups that slide across my screen either. I am talking front page, top left, for one week, and with only 7 simple questions with check boxes and no log-in. Leave out that idiotic Don't Know answer because if you don't know by now, you NEVER will.


"Are you in favor of amnesty for illegal immigrants?" Yes or No

"Should America deport illegal immigrants according to the law?" Yes or No

"Do you think the President has a plan that will work? Yes or No

"Have you ever hired an illegal immigrant?" Yes or No

"Will granting amnesty to illegal immigrants affect your livelihood as a citizen?" Yes or No

"Do you know your Senator and Representative's stand on illegal immigration?" Yes or No

Place a drop-down box with states to pick from and then hit ENTER. Once ENTER is hit, the current results of the poll is shown. It is simple coding, so it can easily be done.

CBS won't ever do it, but it would certainly be intriguing to see the HONEST answers for a change....

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by reel-crazy May 31, 2007 8:37 AM PDT

I have no problem with the migrant worker, Antillo99. My problem is with the migrant worker that runs across that field with no intentions of ever picking a crop and planting themselves ILLEGALLY as a citizen of my country.

Meanwhile, I am going to go get into my Mexican-made, American-sold Chevrolet Tahoe (according to the driver door tag "Manufactured in Mexico de SA De C.V.) and buy some lettuce at the store...

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by cathaleen May 31, 2007 8:45 AM PDT

Immigration should not be decided by the elitists.
(Congressman and Senators) These people are untouched by this problem except maybe for their own servant problems. This should be voted on by the american people. Why not let us vote on this and then no one can complain. It seems we lose our voice on important issues.

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by erik2590 May 31, 2007 9:15 AM PDT

I have not met one certain person who supports amnesty, black or white. Race is not the issue, our quality of life is. CBS is a liberal bastion from #$% and these polls are nonsense.

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by bluestardad May 31, 2007 9:32 AM PDT

HERE IS A LIST OF THE RUBBER STAMP REPUBLICAN SENATORS UP FOR REELECTION! MAKE THEM PAY FOR THEIR TREASON AGAINST THE WILL OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE! IT IS UP TO YOU!


Alexander, Lamar- (R - TN)
Allard, Wayne- (R - CO)
Chambliss, Saxby- (R - GA)
Cochran, Thad- (R - MS)
Coleman, Norm- (R - MN)
Collins, Susan M.- (R - ME)
Cornyn, John- (R - TX)
Craig, Larry E.- (R - ID)
Dole, Elizabeth- (R - NC)
Enzi, Michael B.- (R - WY)
Graham, Lindsey- (R - SC)
Hagel, Chuck- (R - NE)
Inhofe, James M.- (R - OK)
McConnell, Mitch- (R - KY)
Roberts, Pat- (R - KS)
Sessions, Jeff- (R - AL)
Smith, Gordon H.- (R - OR)
Stevens, Ted- (R - AK)
Sununu, John E.- (R - NH)
Warner, John- (R - VA)

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by wordamus May 31, 2007 10:01 AM PDT

Question;

How well will the newly "legal" immigrant obey our laws IF,

him or her willfully came here ILLEGALLY,

him or her willfully LIED to their employers,

obtained a SS card and other official documentation ILLEGALLY,

him or her repeatedly VIOLATED our traffic laws,

willfully participated in GANG, DRUG or other CRIMINAL activity,

Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm?

Reply to this comment

by rohink-2009 May 31, 2007 10:26 AM PDT

How can CBS say that immigration is a top concern only for Republicans? It seems to me that this issue is one that all Americans are concerned about.

Reply to this comment

by rohink-2009 May 31, 2007 10:41 AM PDT

Immigration should not be decided by the elitists.
(Congressman and Senators) These people are untouched by this problem except maybe for their own servant problems. This should be voted on by the american people. Why not let us vote on this and then no one can complain. It seems we lose our voice on important issues.
Posted by cathaleen at

When the American people vote on an issue pertaining to illegal immigration, like the town in Texas (I believe) it did no good because a Judge stopped it and lawyers are eager to challenge it. So much for the will of the American people. I think this is one issue that can united all true Americans, regardless of race or political affiliation.

Reply to this comment

by ryindy May 31, 2007 10:48 AM PDT

Antillo99:
You're so far out in left field, you%u2019ll never realize reality. Other than small number of farmers that are looking for a crop of subservient, modern day serf's there aren't many people concerned about how lettuce and cucumbers are harvested. Even Hispanics don't want Ag-work which is why they are working in meat and poultry processing plants, manufacturing, construction, and a whole host of other industries.

Mexicans, like any other ethnicity, that enter this country illegally have no rights, other than to be arrested and deported as soon as they are found. Americans regardless of their heritage, want law and order enforced.

Today one can't go onto the internet without hearing about Latino gangs, murder's, rapes, large drug busts, etc. But unlike Latino's that thrive on a culture of disregarding laws or take the law into their own hands, Americans believe in the rule of the law. If this Congress doesn't start putting Americans first instead of an invading class of criminals, we%u2019ll put another one in office.

Reply to this comment

by peter776-2009 May 31, 2007 10:50 AM PDT

The title of this article could hardly be more misleading: "Immigration a Top Issue -- For GOP Only." I am a life-long liberal Democrat, and I am completely opposed to amnesty for illegal aliens. Not only that, I am totally opposed to illegal aliens receiving any benefits while this in my country, including education, health care, or drop-baby citizenship. I am in favor of criminalizing the employment of illegal aliens, promptly deporting illegal aliens whenever and wherever they are found, and completing the wall along our border with Mexico. Come to think of it, I don't personally know ANYONE, Republican or Democrat, who is in favor of amnesty, benefits or citizenship for illegal aliens. The so-called poll results described above are much more accurately described as the results obtained by asking misleading, prejudicial questions, the answers to which conform to the predetermined outcome sought by the "pollsters" (i.e., only rabid right-wing Republicans are in favor of clamping down on illegal immigration). What hooey. And this is called news?

Reply to this comment

by artsygrandma May 31, 2007 11:51 AM PDT

As an American Citizen, whose dear ones have suffered, fought, and died for our precious freedom,I am so saddened and even scared, about the condition of our great country. I grew up on a farm and worked in the fields and in the dairy barn, as millions of other Americans have and do today. I consider the term "jobs no one else will work" as propaganda. Many homeless people (many homeless as a result of the free flow of drugs across our borders, would much rather be picking produce out of the field for a salary, than digging through garbage, just to survive. Americans, wake up. Money is coming out of every American pocket to support illegals, schools, jails, births, hospitals and medical care. Paying American patients are denied healthcare due to hospitals going broke caring for those illegals who cannot pay. I have seen lines at Western Union on payday, illegals sending money home. Is that helping the American economy? No. In a few years, the North American Union. Will that mean free flow of commerce, drugs, terrorists across our borders? Lowered standards for imported produce? Where did America go? Citizens today are failing to protect what our forefathers and our military gave so much to provide for us.

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[fastfredy1]

The illegal immigrants currently living in this country are not the people America needs. Predominately hispanic, the majority come from Latin and South America, primarily Mexico. They were raised in a culture in which corruption is an accepted fact of life. A dishonest politician, civil servant, or a corrupt cop is the norm, not the exception. Consequently, they have no respect for the law as evidenced by their illegal entry into this country.
You've been told they pay taxes, obey the law, and take the jobs that Americans won't. Sorry, but my experience has been the opposite. They'll mow lawns and they'll pick lettuce, but they won't stay there long. Checked the label on the fruits and veggies you've been buying lately? How many of those products actually came from South America? Personally, I'll pay more for fruits and vegetables to have 'em picked by an American that's earning a living wage. And when's the last time you asked a neighborhood kid to mow your lawn? He's not getting the $5 or $10 you got as a kid. I don't know of any cheap lawn service, so I don't accept their cries of 'poverty'.

Illeagle should punished not rewarded.

[fastfredy1]

These people don't want to be Americans - they want to be foreigners living in America, earning an American living, having their bills paid by someone else, yet still expecting to have a say in how this country's governed. They don't want to learn English - instead they think you should be required to learn their language. Fire one, even in an 'at will' state such as Utah, and the EEOC folks will call. It was because they're hispanic and you're prejudiced, not because they were incompetent, constantly late, or called in sick at least once a week. They've no intention of trying to assimilate into our culture. The only reason anyone in America should celebrate Cinco del Mayo is because it recalls one more occasion when somebody kicked the *** out of the French; it's no more a part of our heritage than Boxing Day or Rose Monday.

[fastfredy1]

I cannot adequately express the outrage felt by my associates, my friends, my family, or myself at this latest travesty of legislation being launched out of Washington. For decades the legislators in Washington have done nothing to stem the flood of criminals crossing our Southern Border. That is the only legitimate label that can be applied to these people.....to willfully, knowingly break the law makes one "a criminal.%u201D The current laws have not been enforced. When apprehended these criminals are released on a foolish assumption they will return for trial and deportation.

The only solution now advanced is to give these criminals a "Get out of Jail Free" card! A "congratulations folks, you%u2019ve made it to the Promised Land!!" Now, go get all your family and friends and bring them over here for more free lunch; all on the backs of the American taxpayer. The only viable explanation has to be to enhance the political posturing of the Parties%u2026%u2026..it can in no way be construed as benefiting this Nation, its culture, or its traditions. Enforce the laws already on the books! We don%u2019t need more political deforestation with such a waste of paper. Why do we need amnesty for felons!

[hypnotoad72]

Fastfredy1 - I agree entirely; from both your messages. Unfortunately, morality and ethics often take the side road the instant somebody can find a way to make money from doing the opposite - as in rewarding negative behavior.

The same goes for offshoring jobs involving IP; then the corporations start whining we need piracy laws. Looking at the stats; the US is nowhere near the countries with the worst problems. Yet more laws are being staged for the US (fine and dandy) except the rest of the world isn't following suit. Surely by now, the costs of piracy would have rendered keeping all the jobs here in America as being the less costly thing to do?

[hypnotoad72]

Addendum/clarification: Especially when the countries we offshore the IP jobs to happen to have the HIGHEST piracy rates...

[fastfredy1]

I have no problem with an individual coming to this country for a better life....as long as they are coming to become an American citizen after learning the language, the laws, the system, and earning the privilege. However, what is being proposed now is a blanket give away of this Nation. To assume it is not is unrealistic in the extreme. Amnesty is the only title that can be applied to this legislation. This act will, in effect, steal the legacy of all who have worked, fought, and died to make this Nation great and will destroy the birthright of our children. The results of this bill will have rewarded the criminal and punished the law abiding citizens of this country.

Those portions of this bill that I%u2019ve seen or heard about show that the general population of US citizens are the ones who will bear the brunt of inconvenience and loss of liberty. This bill as far as I and we are concerned is nothing more than the continuing rape of the Constitution which seems to be the sole function of the majority of the bureaucrats inside the DC beltway. If it is not, why is there such a rush to enact it before anyone can publicly and seriously study its content. Those who choose to support this legislation will be individuals who will have violated their oath %u2026%u2026.%u201Dto support and defend%u201D %u2026%u2026%u201Dand bear true faith and allegiance.

[peter776-2009]

When you have a moron incapable of thinking through the big fog inside his head sitting at the helm of government, this kind of messed-up crazy legislation results. Only a few unscrupulous greedy businessmen will benefit from this bill, at literally everyone else's expense. I cannot recall a greater debacle ever being foisted on the American people than this bill. What's the big rush? So King George can say he got something "important" done before leaving office? There are much larger interests at stake here than Georgie's overweening fragile ego, LIKE THE AMERICAN PEOPLE'S INTERESTS. This kind of legislation needs to be put on hold until the next President takes office. Meanwhile I'D LIKE TO SEE OUR COUNTRY'S IMMIGRATION LAWS ENFORCED, THE BORDER SEALED AND ILLEGAL ALIENS DEPORTED AND DENIED ALL BENEFITS, INCLUDING EDUCATION.

[skyk-2009]

LOL It would seem that the Fascist are out of step with the rest of the nation BIG TIME!!

[dan9111]

This nonsense about "sealing borders" and keeping out the foreigners is hypocrisy. We can't even get politicians to respect our own private property. They can only take and regulate, and then take and regulate more. The GOP does it too, but with a special flavor of insanity (false-patriotism).

So the GOP is now to have us believe that borders are sacrosanct? The more the borders are trespassed upon, and the more we see taxes levied and "patriot" laws enacted, the more we can see the two are exactly the same. They are both acts of aggression against property. The next tea party ought to be with Mexicans at our side and politicians of every party thrown in the harbor.

[tucano2]

Not just for the GOP. A Democrat since 1960 and a Jack Kennedy supporter I am disgusted with Teddy Kennedy. His brother must be spinning in his grave.

Amnesty by any other name is AMNESTY. This proposal intends to reward criminals with the object of their crime. This is typical Bush Administration "My way or the highway", if one does not agree with Mr. Bush one must therefore be some kind of subversive. The subversives are those criminals who have invaded our country, and the traitors who support them whether in the Senate or in some church or other providing aid and comfort to them while still enjoying tax-exempt status. What is it about ILLEGAL Mr. Bush and the drones in the Senate will not understand about ILLEGAL ALIENS?



Americans know in their gut Mr. Bush and the drones in the Senate are selling out the USA.
This is the most massive Corporate Welfare piece of Pork ever considered by Congress. It should be rejected with hostility.

[infidel_us]

Mr. Bush, you are every bit a disappointment as your father was to me back in his day. It's amnesty.....quit being a 'tool' and just admit it.

If the repubs AND dems band together, it won't matter what the hispaincs do. If they hate both parties and stay home, so much the better.

Seal the border.
Harsh fines for businesses who hire illegals.
Cut off all federal funding for sanctuary cities.
Catch and deport.

Eventually, most will self deport. Better get in step with the American people.

[cpaide]

Stop citing a bogus poll as evidence of anything. Calling a 1,200 person phone poll a "random survey" of Americans is lame, and CBS should be ashamed.

Any good newswriter would be embarrassed to cite this poll in a story--unless we're talking about ENTERTAINMENT rather than news or research.

[lorinkundert]

Polls are useless since they are the easiest data to manipulate by selecting demographic areas that match the desired result of the pollster.

[trueusa-2009]

Everyone should go to the CSPAN web site and read the draft of this bill. I can understand not reading every word but read at least half of it and you will see how really stupid this President thinks we are. He is trying to take the power away from DOJ (Immigration) and turn it over to Homeland Security for one thing and we all know how successful that will be. Of course that is where all his buddies are, less illegals getting deported is what he is looking for. The expense of having all these poorly educated folks latch on to our already overburdened social programs is unthinkable and believe me they will because they cannot afford to live on the low wage jobs they will take from Americans. We the blue collar and regular Joe's will be paying for everything as usual while these folks just believe that somehow we owe them. They do not have to learn English, keep their property clean, obey our traffic rules, or any of our laws for that matter because they have already broken them and have been rewarded for it welcome to America!

[gkc99]

"This is the most massive Corporate Welfare piece of Pork ever considered by Congress. It should be rejected with hostility."

More massive than the huge tax giveaway by the Neocon Republiscum to the thousand richest people in the USA? At a time of exploding deficits due to an optional war?

Strange how the folks who were applauding the rip-off, or were quiet as little mice, are all up in arms about this.

Maybe--the tax giveaway was to white people, and the Mexicans are browner?

Maybe--Bushit isn't following the unwritten rules of the White Right?

Wonder why?

[infidel_us]

If their news dept is run like their survey dept, it's no wonder CBS news runs dead LAST!

[tylenol6]

Don't listen to CBS or ABC!!!! There always seem
to be articles written as though most of the American people are for this immigration bill. Most americans know all these illegals will put a BIG strain on our programs such as medicare, medicaid and social security. I guess we can forget about getting any social security. WHY don't big businesses go over to Mexico??? I am sure they will get lots of people applying for jobs. Then maybe we can ship Bush and Cheney over there and they can take the idiots in Congress with them to Mexico. Besides, Bush and Cheney
would love Mexico....THEY HAVE OIL!!!

[nickdaytona]

Kathy Francovic, the author, is intellectually dishonest. And, she%u2019s a blatant, leftwing propagandist.

Firstly, to refer to voters who oppose this bill as "anti-immigrant" is silly: we are anti-ILLEGAL immigration. Notice that by dropping the key term ILLEGAL, she avoids a discussion about enforcing the law.

Secondly, notice how cunningly she attributes opposition to racism, simply by changing the term immigration to immigrant. As if this is about the people, not the existing law.

Being a legal-immigrant myself, it%u2019s counterintuitive that I would be anti-immigrant. I just expect my country to enforce the laws that I obeyed. This country has a tradition of accepting immigrants who apply legally, while the bill before congress destroys this tradition. In my opinion, it%u2019s to bring in a new crop of grateful and easily manipulated voters%u2014that%u2019s why both Rs and Ds love this bill.

Lastly, she%u2019s citing an opinion poll about what people think the facts might be, not showing the actual scientific facts, such as: fact 1--illegals ARE proven likely to commit more crime (simply being here is the first strike), fact 2--the law not opinion dictates deportation, fact 3--we don%u2019t need to pass a new law, just enforce the ones that exist already. The problem is that we are not enforcing the law!

It would be perfectly appropriate for Kathy to change her title to the CBS Chief of Intellectually Dishonest Propoganda. What do ya think?

[infidel_us]

It would be perfectly appropriate for Kathy to change her title to the CBS Chief of Intellectually Dishonest Propoganda. What do ya think?
Posted by NickDaytona at 04:27 PM : May 30, 2007

I think you're 100% RIGHT ON! Nicely done!

[terry12312]

It is a bald face lie to state that Illegal Immigration is a problem for only Republicans.

It is a problem for Democrats. And Independents.

It is a problem for ALL Americans.

Period.

Like Pavlov's dogs, we are being conditioned to accept what is wrong: the Amnesty of Illegal Aliens.

[wazoomac]

We need this bill in America. There is a long way to go, but at least it's something. Right now, employers don't have a way to verify that a person is legal... and if they ask people who "look illegal" for further identification, then they're sued for discrimination. Don't punish the employers until there is a better way to make sure all employees are legal. I really don't think most of us in America (who are working) want our employers to go out of business for these kind of mistakes. We need a working system.

[Razzl]

Well, fear, paranoia, ignorance, and xenophobia are the building blocks of conservatism, so is it any surprise that the Republicans seem to have the franchise when it comes to these types of people? The only morally correct stand for any Republican legislator who is not a racist nut themself is to ignore or talk down the lunatics and refuse to do their bidding. Every Republican presidential candidate who cozies up to the extremist element in their party guarantees their own defeat in the general election.

[michmad2]

"U.S. surrenders to 12 million illegal aliens"! There was a first amnesty, now a second amnesty, so people mark your calendars - there will be a third, a fourth ... This nation was built as a nation of laws, now it is no more than a loosely held coalition of special interest militias who have learned the lessons of street power that Hitler used in the ascendancy of his Third Reich. The leftist liberals and their militants won. It did not take much, a few demonstrations and a very supportive media is all it took for the once great nation of the U.S.A. to capitulate. The politicians who swore to uphold the law and the Constitution are accountable. And law abiding citizens who kept quiet must now speak or forever keep your mouth shut. The appeasement brigade has scored a tactical victory but we can stop this surrender if you rise now and say "Enough!". The real fight has just begun.

[rharrin1]

On tv this last week a grower said americans would not take the job ( picking onions ) for 20.00 per hour.
I say put ad in paper 20.00 per hour to pick onions and you wouldn't have enough fields to put them in.

It's bs they don't pay anywhere near 20.00 the guy was probably republican thinking everybody would believe a stupid remark like that.

[starleo146]

If someone called me and asked ,"Are you for Immigration",I would probably say," yes ", but whoever is calling I would also say,"I am against illegal immigration. No they do not ask the way they should so the polls are not worth 2 cents. I have written to the speaker and told her that by passing that Iraq funding Bill the democrats have 1 strike against them and they better not vote for this immigration bill. I tell you this country is going to h#*%in a hand basket I know I said it before but i will say it again. I think the message better get to them once more.

[starleo146]

you know i have been thinking this so I might as well say it just throw it out there. Knowing the democrats and how they go for the little guy I bet all the Republicans vote against this so the democrats will look bad the only thing that stands in my way is big business I know they want this as well and the lobby hitting Wash.D.C. are the Big Business guys so I don't think the little guy in America will win Just the Illegals WILL WIN. I am probably wrong but honestly Homeland security also wants to do away with the dept. that deals with immigrants and put it under homeland security they couldn't even track a T B guy he got across canada to the U S they couldn't even find the guy.

[omega39-2009]

On tv this last week a grower said americans would not take the job ( picking onions ) for 20.00 per hour.
I say put ad in paper 20.00 per hour to pick onions and you wouldn't have enough fields to put them in.

It's bs they don't pay anywhere near 20.00 the guy was probably republican thinking everybody would believe a stupid remark like that.
Posted by rharrin1

Rharrin1, I saw the report and had the same thought, in the same story did you see there is also a provision to let in 1.2 million agricultural workers? It makes one wonder where the 600,000 "guest workers" they want are planning to work and what jobs "Americans don't want" that they will be filling.

[susanhelit]

It's not GOP only. I don't want this bill to pass, I want our borders secure, and illegal immigrants (and their employers) treated like the criminals they are. And I'm a die hard, campaign contributing, proud Democrat!

[bill1fj]

It seems to me that many businesses are using the cheap labor of the illegals to undercut legal workers pay.
I voted for a Democratic Representative, Tim Walz, in the last election. If he votes for any form of amnesty for illegals I will not vote for him again.
Right here in his district companies hire illegals and use the cheap labor to take jobs away from citizens.
No Amnesty. Deport the illegals.(Yes it can be done). Fine and/or jail anyone that hires illegals. Any illegal caught here should be deported and banned from the U.S.
Thank You

[omega39-2009]

CBS reported the huge Iraqi refuge problem and so far, since the war started, only 535 have been allowed to come here. Under pressure from Congress and the international community, big hearted Bush has agreed to let in 59 more. We destroy their country and tell them to F.O., yet, big hearted Bush wants 12 million Mexicans. I guess the Iraqis won't work cheap enough.

[frankinaz]

The problem with this bill is that it does not go far enough to end the incentives to illegal immigrants. For example, it is still not a crime to enter this country illegally, and the "Anchor Baby" law won't change, so the incentive for illegal immigrant pregnant women is still there for them to deliver their babies here. They will still receive education for their children, health and medical care in many hospitals, obtain housing, and in certain states, driver's licenses, car ownership, in-state college tuition in ten states, and business licenses virtually within all fifty states. Therefore, when the incentives to illegal immigrants are removed, along with their ability to stay in the U. S., the problem should begin to go away, along with the drain on taxpayer money, Federal, state, and local resources.

[cpaide]

The only morally correct stand for any Republican legislator who is not a racist nut themself is to ignore or talk down the lunatics and refuse to do their bidding.

Posted by razzl

I agree! They should talk down the ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT LUNATIC SUPPORTERS and refuse to do their bidding. Instead, they must do what is right for America and VOTE AGAINST AMNESTY FOR 12 to 20 MILLION ILLEGALS.

[peter776-2009]

Frankinaz said: The problem with this bill is that it does not go far enough to end the incentives to illegal immigrants. For example, it is still not a crime to enter this country illegally, and the "Anchor Baby" law won't change, so the incentive for illegal immigrant pregnant women is still there for them to deliver their babies here. They will still receive education for their children, health and medical care in many hospitals, obtain housing, and in certain states, driver's licenses, car ownership, in-state college tuition in ten states, and business licenses virtually within all fifty states. Therefore, when the incentives to illegal immigrants are removed, along with their ability to stay in the U. S., the problem should begin to go away, along with the drain on taxpayer money, Federal, state, and local resources.

Completely correct! It astonishes me that there is so little discussion of this elephant-in-the-room issue. There is literally no country on Earth, other than the US, that would be foolish enough to permit so many of its valuable resources and taxpayer dollars to be gobbled up by illegal aliens. We need to wise up FAST and change our laws to deny all benefits, of ANY kind, to illegal aliens, including drop-baby citizenship.

[bellal-2009]

"This anti-immigrant segment of the Republican Party is not limited to any one region"


It's anti-illegal immigrant, Kathy Francovic. HELLO.

[bellal-2009]

" not immigration, not even terrorism, was named by more than 3 percent of Democrats"


Wow, that's amazing.

[bellal-2009]

Americans don't want their wages diluted any more with illegal cheap labor. The Democrats have become the big business party and have abandoned their base, working Americans, for masses of migrant foreign national labor. It's sickening.

[sparks224]

The Republican delema: How to let the cheap labor in while pretending to care about border security.

[coffeehead-2009]

I also think the media is trying to stir the pot AGAIN for the next election.

I am a die hard demo also... or was~~~~~~

NAFTA was designed in the first bush administration via the Reagan admin. - it was finalized by Clinton. It is a disaster to our country but a windfall for corporations.
It forced countries to STOP producing certain exports in areas and to increase in others.
Mexico forced it's agricultural interest in corn to cease. It put 6% of their workforce out of jobs and thus - the mass immigration that continued with the demise of sections of their farming. It is NOT a party wall - it is an AMERICAN issue. It is also a taxpayer issue since every dollar of pay they receive they will burden the taxpayers (both dems and repubs.) -
one dollar of cheap labor pay will reap the "new citizens" 1.50 of "old citizens" tax dollars in benefits. And THAT is just the ticket to the demise of an already over burdened segment of our country - the middle class

[reel-crazy]

It would be refreshing to see CBS do an HONEST poll online concerning immigration. And not via those annoying popups that slide across my screen either. I am talking front page, top left, for one week, and with only 7 simple questions with check boxes and no log-in. Leave out that idiotic Don't Know answer because if you don't know by now, you NEVER will.


"Are you in favor of amnesty for illegal immigrants?" Yes or No

"Should America deport illegal immigrants according to the law?" Yes or No

"Do you think the President has a plan that will work? Yes or No

"Have you ever hired an illegal immigrant?" Yes or No

"Will granting amnesty to illegal immigrants affect your livelihood as a citizen?" Yes or No

"Do you know your Senator and Representative's stand on illegal immigration?" Yes or No

Place a drop-down box with states to pick from and then hit ENTER. Once ENTER is hit, the current results of the poll is shown. It is simple coding, so it can easily be done.

CBS won't ever do it, but it would certainly be intriguing to see the HONEST answers for a change....

[reel-crazy]

I have no problem with the migrant worker, Antillo99. My problem is with the migrant worker that runs across that field with no intentions of ever picking a crop and planting themselves ILLEGALLY as a citizen of my country.

Meanwhile, I am going to go get into my Mexican-made, American-sold Chevrolet Tahoe (according to the driver door tag "Manufactured in Mexico de SA De C.V.) and buy some lettuce at the store...

[cathaleen]

Immigration should not be decided by the elitists.
(Congressman and Senators) These people are untouched by this problem except maybe for their own servant problems. This should be voted on by the american people. Why not let us vote on this and then no one can complain. It seems we lose our voice on important issues.

[erik2590]

I have not met one certain person who supports amnesty, black or white. Race is not the issue, our quality of life is. CBS is a liberal bastion from #$% and these polls are nonsense.

[bluestardad]

HERE IS A LIST OF THE RUBBER STAMP REPUBLICAN SENATORS UP FOR REELECTION! MAKE THEM PAY FOR THEIR TREASON AGAINST THE WILL OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE! IT IS UP TO YOU!


Alexander, Lamar- (R - TN)
Allard, Wayne- (R - CO)
Chambliss, Saxby- (R - GA)
Cochran, Thad- (R - MS)
Coleman, Norm- (R - MN)
Collins, Susan M.- (R - ME)
Cornyn, John- (R - TX)
Craig, Larry E.- (R - ID)
Dole, Elizabeth- (R - NC)
Enzi, Michael B.- (R - WY)
Graham, Lindsey- (R - SC)
Hagel, Chuck- (R - NE)
Inhofe, James M.- (R - OK)
McConnell, Mitch- (R - KY)
Roberts, Pat- (R - KS)
Sessions, Jeff- (R - AL)
Smith, Gordon H.- (R - OR)
Stevens, Ted- (R - AK)
Sununu, John E.- (R - NH)
Warner, John- (R - VA)

[wordamus]

Question;

How well will the newly "legal" immigrant obey our laws IF,

him or her willfully came here ILLEGALLY,

him or her willfully LIED to their employers,

obtained a SS card and other official documentation ILLEGALLY,

him or her repeatedly VIOLATED our traffic laws,

willfully participated in GANG, DRUG or other CRIMINAL activity,

Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm?

[rohink-2009]

How can CBS say that immigration is a top concern only for Republicans? It seems to me that this issue is one that all Americans are concerned about.

[rohink-2009]

Immigration should not be decided by the elitists.
(Congressman and Senators) These people are untouched by this problem except maybe for their own servant problems. This should be voted on by the american people. Why not let us vote on this and then no one can complain. It seems we lose our voice on important issues.
Posted by cathaleen at

When the American people vote on an issue pertaining to illegal immigration, like the town in Texas (I believe) it did no good because a Judge stopped it and lawyers are eager to challenge it. So much for the will of the American people. I think this is one issue that can united all true Americans, regardless of race or political affiliation.

[ryindy]

Antillo99:
You're so far out in left field, you%u2019ll never realize reality. Other than small number of farmers that are looking for a crop of subservient, modern day serf's there aren't many people concerned about how lettuce and cucumbers are harvested. Even Hispanics don't want Ag-work which is why they are working in meat and poultry processing plants, manufacturing, construction, and a whole host of other industries.

Mexicans, like any other ethnicity, that enter this country illegally have no rights, other than to be arrested and deported as soon as they are found. Americans regardless of their heritage, want law and order enforced.

Today one can't go onto the internet without hearing about Latino gangs, murder's, rapes, large drug busts, etc. But unlike Latino's that thrive on a culture of disregarding laws or take the law into their own hands, Americans believe in the rule of the law. If this Congress doesn't start putting Americans first instead of an invading class of criminals, we%u2019ll put another one in office.

[peter776-2009]

The title of this article could hardly be more misleading: "Immigration a Top Issue -- For GOP Only." I am a life-long liberal Democrat, and I am completely opposed to amnesty for illegal aliens. Not only that, I am totally opposed to illegal aliens receiving any benefits while this in my country, including education, health care, or drop-baby citizenship. I am in favor of criminalizing the employment of illegal aliens, promptly deporting illegal aliens whenever and wherever they are found, and completing the wall along our border with Mexico. Come to think of it, I don't personally know ANYONE, Republican or Democrat, who is in favor of amnesty, benefits or citizenship for illegal aliens. The so-called poll results described above are much more accurately described as the results obtained by asking misleading, prejudicial questions, the answers to which conform to the predetermined outcome sought by the "pollsters" (i.e., only rabid right-wing Republicans are in favor of clamping down on illegal immigration). What hooey. And this is called news?

[artsygrandma]

As an American Citizen, whose dear ones have suffered, fought, and died for our precious freedom,I am so saddened and even scared, about the condition of our great country. I grew up on a farm and worked in the fields and in the dairy barn, as millions of other Americans have and do today. I consider the term "jobs no one else will work" as propaganda. Many homeless people (many homeless as a result of the free flow of drugs across our borders, would much rather be picking produce out of the field for a salary, than digging through garbage, just to survive. Americans, wake up. Money is coming out of every American pocket to support illegals, schools, jails, births, hospitals and medical care. Paying American patients are denied healthcare due to hospitals going broke caring for those illegals who cannot pay. I have seen lines at Western Union on payday, illegals sending money home. Is that helping the American economy? No. In a few years, the North American Union. Will that mean free flow of commerce, drugs, terrorists across our borders? Lowered standards for imported produce? Where did America go? Citizens today are failing to protect what our forefathers and our military gave so much to provide for us.