US Representative Steve King Has Heated Confrontation With Dreamers - Page 5

Maybe because student visas cannot be used to adjust to permanent residence. If you come into the US under a student visa, you are here on a temporary basis, you cannot work outside the university, you come to study and once your done you have to leave.
Most of us lived here for most of our lives. This is our home. We WANT to be able to stay here LEGALLY and we WANT to be MORE a part of the SOCIETY.

Believe me when I say that everyone on this website has looked into ways of becoming legal here. But the pathway is just not there. There are few non-immigrant visas where you can have an intent to immigrate to the United States.

There are 65,000 H1-B worker visas available. Those visas are available to those industries in demand and issued in 3 year increments. If you want a visa, you must have an employer sponsor who acts as a petitioner for you to get a chance at a visa. IF you are approved for the visa which is a small chance, then you are able to come into the US and work for the company.

If the company is willing to pay for the legal fees and sponsor you, then they can begin the process of adjusting your status to that of permanent resident. The employer sends in a petition for a visa. Now comes the priority dates and visa availability. If you come from a high demand country, you will have to wait 10 or more years before a visa becomes available to you. Now, since you are on the H1-B visa, you have to fulfill the requirements of leaving the US for a year and then coming back to work to be able to apply for an extension, and the H1-B visa cannot be issued for more than 10 years. So by the time you are eligible, you would have quit the job and/or became unlawfully present, thus being unable to get the green card.

You often hear about how the immigration system is broken, it's because it is. The system is so convoluted that if you aren't a celebrity, a rocket scientist, a millionaire, or related to a citizen, then basically you can't immigrate. You hear about Justin Bieber committing felonies and what? he's not getting deported. While thousands of undocumented people are deported for traffic tickets.

We're not going to change either one's mind, so this will be my last post regardless of how you respond.

The difference between amnesty back in 86 and now would be that Reagan didn't care for the border, just simply giving illegals another chance. Obama under his administration has deported more illegals than George Bush did (who was also relatively sympathetic to the illegals) or any other president for that matter. Yet no conservative seem to want to acknowledge this. Obama would obviously be looking to secure the border more under CIR. CIR isn't just giving illegals another chance. It's about closing the border, and making the immigration process more tight and tidy. Would it be the perfect solution? Who is to say, but at least it's geared toward fixing a problem and going on the right direction, which the Republican base either doesn't seem to want to do or going about it completely wrong.

And you're bordering (pun, get it?) on hyperbole with the 20+ million illegals. At most it appears to be about 12 million, with range between 8-12 million. U.S.'s population is 300+ million, meaning illegals make up of less than 5% (I didn't do the specific math but should be less than 5%). That's a very small group of people to accuse of saying "they're part of the problem with our economy and reason why our national debt is in the trillions".

Even if they are, your claims of illegals being a burden on taxpayer money is hypocritical. So if you have problems with children using American education, school lunch, whatever healthcare issue you appear to be misinformed about. Here's a simple solution: Let them able to work legally and give them a chance to pay back through taxes. Other than income taxes, illegals are paying taxes. So let them pay income tax. If you're not willing to let illegals work legally, then the whole argument of them being a burden on taxpayer money doesn't make sense. So don't make that argument when you have claimed you don't believe in letting illegals work legally.

Enforcing all laws is not possible. Should the U.S. enforce all laws, including arresting those downloading movies and music off the internet illegally, or arresting those who jaywalk? Most people seem to get the idea that law = morality. No, no it doesn't. Breaking the law doesn't make a person bad human being. But let's say, U.S. enforces all immigration law. That's another waste of taxpayer money to scrutinize every single small business. You know how big of a hassle that is to manage? And your view of children being born here not being granted citizenship is unfair. So a child born in the U.S. should suffer because of mistakes the parents made? Real ethical. No wonder the Republican Party is losing more members and popularity everyday because they show absolutely no compassion. Realized minorities, immigrants, women, the poor, homosexuals are tending to the left? You who claimed you have compassion for people brought to this country illegally when they were young is yet claiming people born in this country shouldn't be granted citizenship if their parents weren't. Yeah real consistency I see there. You like tearing apart families?

And I do not care if you're a conservative or not, but the whole conservative base are all for yelling about protecting the Constitution yet anything they disagree with, they want the Constitution to be changed without directly mentioning the Constitution. I find it quite funny to be honest with you.

And while I don't condone stealing other people's SSN or anything like that, you're generalizing. There are enough of us who acquired our own SSN (I've had my own social security number since 1997) and/or worked under table. So don't generalize us like that; it's absolutely unfair. It's none of your business to know how my family obtained original SSNs. You see, you're that very misinformed of how difficult the immigration process is in this country despite you thinking you're knowledgeable in this topic.

And finally, I will say this. Just because a person claimed not to be racist for going against amnesty doesn't mean that person is right. It's only been 50 years since the Civil Rights Movement ERA. 50 years is a short time in history. Nowadays, there is such stigma attached to being a racist that nobody wants to out themselves as a racist. People who whine about illegal immigrants are also the ones who seem to whine about Spanish being spoken in this country or dialing 2 for Spanish over the phone. You don't think that is some form of racism? There is no official language in the U.S. And that fear is unwarranted considering the fact that a lot of the children of illegals speak English fluently. But yes, it's frown upon to speak Spanish, just like 50-100 years ago when it was frown upon to speak Italian. Yet, most Italian-Americans do not speak a lick of Italian nowadays, just English. So I don't think people who are fearful of spanish language should worry much. And I'm not one bit Hispanic nor do I speak the language. I am not of Hispanic ethnicity and I could smell this racist bs in this country.

Anyways, best of luck to you, Enough. I hope someday that you show some compassion.

@Enough

Blanket amnesty in '86 was rife with fraud; 99% of us weren't even in the country at that time, and many were not even born. I know a lot of large Eastern European families; mostly Romanian, and a lot of Bulgarians, who had a family member enter the country after being smuggled though Mexico to take advantage of it. Many gained status on bogus asylum claims, only to return frequently to their country of origin to visit as soon as they received permanent status. The difference this time is that we are asking to be allowed the opportunity to earn status, rather than just be given it by simply being present. But what happened then cannot be imposed or blamed on our conduct.

All of the potential legalization bills that have circulated Congress for the past 15 yrs have had a multitude of prospective requirements to meet before one could be given whatever status one qualified for. The previous amnesty had retroactive requirements, which from what I've read, were easy to falsify.
What is it about undocumented status that is so absolute, insurmountable and unforgiving that you believe people should not be given the opportunity to earn legalization?

Do you find it okay that rich foreign nationals buy their way in? Is it okay for investors - mostly Chinese- to price middle class families, both native and immigrant - out of home ownership, as it happens where I live? I assume they all have status. There are thousands of ways in which privilege, class, wealth and illegal immigration fuse to disrupt lives here and abroad. The way I see it, it all comes back to education and inequality. The global and American economies are changing faster than the American citizenry has had time to adjust, and I feel that we are scapegoated for the ills of the country, while those in privilege get a free pass.

I couldn't disagree more. First and foremost, I know many who are anti-illegal immigration. But, I don’t know anyone who is anti-immigrant. Proponents of CIR always conflate legal with illegal. It is disingenuous to group the lawful with unlawful. There is a difference.

Race/ethnicity has been used by La Raza and other illegal alien advocates to demonize and silence opposition. It's a lie, period. They are exploiting the ugly history of slavery and Jim Crow to support their agenda. They can't defend their position, so they use the race card. Furthermore, "Hispanic" is not a race. One can be from any race and be Hispanic. Moreover, the majority of Hispanics self-identify as "white." It is total nonsense. There is no "brown" race.

While we will always have racism, the vast majority of citizens opposed to CIR are not racists or xenophobes. Again, that is nothing but spurious propaganda. Any country's citizens would be opposed to having untold millions streaming across their border, living and working in their country, and using their resources without going through legal channels. If I wanted to live in Mexico or Central America, I would move there. I don't want my country transformed into their third-world existence.

I daresay, if millions of Haitians started entering Mexico, they would not be welcome. They certainly would not receive the red carpet treatment Hispanic illegal aliens receive in the USA. Their children would be denied an education, and adults would be denied jobs. They would be forced to leave, or die.

Furthermore, Hispanics are some of the most racist people I have encountered. They complain about racism against Hispanic illegal aliens. Yet, they are racists. They bring their racist culture to this country, and consider themselves superior to Black Americans; because, in their countries, black people are considered scum. Talk about hypocrisy!

BTW, how do you define extremism?

You are missing a salient point. People here illegally should not be burden on U.S. taxpayers, period. Unfortunately, they are, to the tune of billions annually. They shouldn't use ANY government assistance, let alone amounts equal to that of citizens. How is that a benefit to this country? We have enough citizens in need. We certainly don't need to import poverty.

The latest report indicates there are more 22-year-old citizens than any other age group. For the first time, they have surpassed the population of baby boomers. I doubt we will have a shortage of citizens without illegal aliens. We also welcome on average 1 million legal immigrants annually. We will be fine.

Furthermore, Social Security is only facing insolvency due to misappropriation of funds. There wouldn't be a problem if the government would stop dipping into those funds. Don't get me started on the number of illegal aliens receiving SS disability. Obama's aunt was one, despite having never worked a day in this country. Not only was she receiving monthly disability checks, she was also living in tax-funded subsidized housing and receiving food stamps. She is now deceased. But, how on earth did she benefit this country, or illegal aliens currently receiving similar assistance?

Yes, I agree we should entice immigrants, but not ILLEGAL immigrants. Legal immigrants tend to be educated, with skills we need to compete in this global economy. Many also start businesses. Conversely, illegal aliens tend to be uneducated and illiterate. They also tend to give birth to children they cannot support, which places an even greater burden on taxpayers.

The CBO? Surely you jest! How on earth will millions of low-skilled, uneducated "fix" our national debt; particularly, given a large percent are on government assistance? They receive far more than they give. Yes, there are economists who claim illegal immigration will boost the economy. The same economists funded by special interest groups with a vested interest in changing the demographics of this country. Their "reports" aren't worth the paper they're printed on. In any case, we do not need illegal aliens to fix anything in this country.

The net outcome? The only "outcome" I see is formerly nice middle-class neighborhoods being transformed into drug-infested, crime-ridden, overpopulated barrios. I also see overcrowded schools, with lowered standards. I feel for parents who don't have the means to send their children to private schools. Thanks to massive illegal immigration, the U.S. is now sinking to the bottom in world-wide educational ranking. That is certainly not an outcome to celebrate.

As for interracial marriages, how is that relevant? We have had interracial marriages for years in this country. In fact, my marriage is interracial. Are you suggesting Hispanic illegal aliens are assimilating? If so, I haven't noticed. In fact, they are Balkanizing this country, destroying our established melting pot. No, this is not a positive change.

Let the Dreamers remain who will become contributing members of society. But, the rest should leave. As I previously stated, another amnesty will be an even greater disaster than the last. No thanks.

Not any member of my family (which includes a black American brother in-law) nor me have ever referred to ANY black American as scum; we don't think we are superior to anyone based on race; we are Hispanic*

*I have very close friends who are black Americans who are continuously stereotyped and scrutinized by the community at large due to legacy racism and racist attitudes. They are CS professionals with advanced graduate degrees; it makes not a difference. We go out to eat, and they get treated differently. We go shopping and I can feel the difference. The majority of those enabling the prejudice are "white" Americans. I've only ever dated Caucasian men; most of my friends are Caucasian; and they too are aware of intrinsic racist attitudes. We believe in creating change by modeling the behavior that we wish to see in others, and to lead by example. I'm sorry that you have experienced racism from other Hispanics; surely you know by now not to paint everyone with the same brush.

Thanks for explaining Dreamer's dilemma. I will be the first to agree we need to revamp our legal immigration process. I also support allowing STEM and other graduates with useful knowledge and skills to remain here following graduation. They are an asset.

My husband entered this country on a student visa, and managed to become a permanent resident and ultimately a naturalized citizen. While I do not know the entire process, I do know he fully complied with the law. He is also a native of South America. It can be done.

Our immigration policies should be selective. We don't need immigrants who cannot benefit this country, which is precisely why many applicants are rejected. Those rejected must accept the decision, and move on. After all, there are other countries in the world. If they can't enter the U.S., try elsewhere.

The H1-B Visa system is fraught with fraud; as are other visas, such as the U-Visa. Companies are using the H1-B to replace qualified U.S. citizens with cheaper foreign labor. The laws must change to prevent such fraud and abuse. That's the type of "reform" most citizens can support.

I am not a Justin Bieber fan. As far as I'm concerned, he has contributed nothing to this country. But, you can't compare his treatment to that of illegal aliens being deported for traffic violations. He is here legally. All illegal aliens are deportable, regardless of their infraction. If our laws were being enforced, illegal aliens would not brazenly proclaim they are "undocumented and unafraid." That's a huge middle finger to the citizens of this country.

I do believe Dreamers will be permitted to stay. But, the push for CIR is going to be met with massive opposition, especially now with the surge at the border. I understand why you want all to be legalized. But, you guys should choose your battle wisely.

I was trying to make a point however. How Justin Bieber who is legally here under a visa is able to commit deportable crimes, yet he is able to get away with it because of his celebrity. While there are undocumented families who are split apart because they were unlucky coming home from work and get pulled over by the police. They don't have licenses and if the police put two and two together and find out they're undocumented, they are arrested and placed under ICE custody.

There are different groups of undocumented immigrants coming from different backgrounds. You do have individuals whom you mention that abuse the system, I know, I've actually voiced my opinion on that in this website. But it's not an accurate portrayal to say there are hundreds of thousands of undocumented immigrants that do this, when you look at the plight of those who come here. Immigrants, in general, aspire to make something of themselves in the land of opportunity, not to be a burden onto themselves.

There can't be a one size fits all solution to immigration. You mentioned your desire for a merit based system, letting those who can contribute stay and those who can't leave, it sounds commonplace, but the congress can't come up with the fix. You can make it happen you have a voice, whatever fixes you think need to happen, you are entitled to your opinions being heard.

I, along with others here, will continue to live with DACA.

No, we will not change each other's mind. However, I was hopeful you would gain a better understanding of those opposed to CIR, and realize opposition is not personal. Nor is it primarily motivated by racism. But, that's fine. You don't have to respond. Regardless, I will respond to this.

In reality, Reagan was promised the border would be secured, just as we are being promised today. It didn't happen then, and it won't happen now. Obama has NOT deported more. When pressed, he admitted his deportation numbers include those turned away at the border, as well as counting repeat deportations as though they were additional people. If the same person was deported 5 times, it was erroneously reported as five illegal aliens. The numbers were skewed. Do a little research. If millions are turned away at the border, that does not lower the number currently here. In fact, there has been very little interior enforcement, by design.

Obama will do exactly what the Hispanic lobby dictates. He initially stated the "children" crossing the border would be returned, and suggested the law should be changed to treat them the same as Mexicans and Canadians. Then, as soon as the Hispanic Caucus opposed, he changed his tune. I have no faith in Obama. Frankly, I am sorry I voted for him.

CIR will not fix the problem. It sounds good on paper, but it will never be implemented and enforced by this incompetent government. We don't need a new law to secure the border. Congress already passed a bill to appropriate additional funds for border security. Unfortunately, Bush didn't do it, neither did Obama. They don't want the borders secured. They want illegal immigration to continue to ensure a steady supply of cheap labor.

Hyperbole? I think not. But, I do like your pun. LOL! The government is using the same source today as in 1986 (Census Bureau) to estimate the number here illegally. In 1986, they estimated there were 800,000 in the country. In reality, there were in excess of 3 million. That is quite a huge discrepancy. If they were so off on their estimate then, what would make you believe they have it right now? No, we have far more than 11-12 million. Twenty million is not farfetched; and in the final analysis, may actually be rather conservative.

I said I don't want illegal aliens to work, because I don't want them here, period. And, their race, ethnicity, and national origin have no bearing on my opinion. It is unfair to reward illegal aliens, while others complied with our laws. Not to mention, the millions who are currently waiting for the opportunity to enter this country through legal channels. Why should they be put on the backburner?

If you actually believe it's a waste of taxpayers' funds to enforce our immigration laws, you clearly don't believe we should control illegal immigration. Well, I am a citizen, and I don't consider it a waste. In fact, IMO, it's imperative. It will cost far less to enforce the law, than to pay for millions of illegal aliens for perpetuity.

I have a newsflash for you. It is not only Republicans who support changing Birthright Citizenship. I am not a Republican. Nor are most of my family and friends. Yet, we all believe it should be changed. Even Harry Reid argued for an end to BC prior to adopting his current pandering posture. If you think I'm lying, check out Harry Reid on this video. It is very short, not even a minute long.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=75a9Wa6KL7k

I can't live in France as a U.S. citizen and give birth to a French citizen, even if I am there legally. Other countries realize they should not confer citizenship to children who do not have a parent citizen. That isn't being mean-spirited; that is simple common sense. Children born to illegal aliens should have the same citizenship as their parents. If they have two Mexican national parents, they should also be a Mexican national. After all their parents aren't U.S. citizens. Your argument lacks logic. Granting children the citizenship of their parents does not in any way, shape, or form "tear apart" families. That's not even bordering on hyperbole. That IS hyperbole.

Illegal immigration and birth tourism has bastardized U.S. citizenship. U.S. citizenship no longer has value when anyone can enter this country, by any means, and give birth to a U.S. citizen. I suppose you also believe women should have the right to fly here from every corner of the world, for the sole purpose of giving birth to a U.S. citizen, then returning home. That's exactly what is happening. Google "Birth Tourism." It's appalling. No other country would tolerate such blatant abuse.

I am not sure why you continue to mention Republicans. I couldn't possibly care less whether any group is for or against them. I already told you, I am not a Republican. I am a former lifelong Democrat, now Independent. If you honestly think the Democrats care about you, you are sorely mistaken. I assure you, they don't. They will say what is necessary to secure votes. They have no moral compass. They don't have a more loyal base than black Americans. Yet, they have thrown them under the bus. You are naive if you actually believe they have your best interest at heart, gays, or any other group. They want votes, period. If Satan and his demons appeared in large enough numbers, they would embrace them for votes.

I am not going to rehash the racism argument. It is utter nonsense. Some have been brainwashed to see racism at every corner. Now, after 75 years, it is suddenly racist to have the team name Washington Redskins. PC is out of control. I have yet to have anyone offer a cogent explanation as to how opposition to illegal immigration is inherently racist. But, if it furthers your cause, I suppose you'll continue to attack opponents with the race card.

I am very compassionate. But, I have little compassion for criminals; especially those who ruin the lives of others for personal gain. Again, illegal immigration is not a victimless crime. My compassion is reserved for the victims.

I find it strange that you believe I lack compassion. If true, I would not have compassion for Dreamers, which I most certainly do. In any case, I enjoyed our chat. Take care!

I keep hearing illegal aliens are required this time to "earn" legalization. How is legalization earned? With the passage of CIR, illegal aliens will be summarily legalized. Is that not true? There is no prior requirement, other than one must have entered prior to a specified date. That is easily accomplished. Illegal aliens will rely on the same fraud to "prove" they were here prior to the date as they have used to survive in this country.

The only so-called requirements involve those who want to eventually apply for citizenship, which we both know is not the goal for many. Once legalized, they can remain in this country indefinitely without ever learning English, getting in the back of the line, or paying back taxes. Heck, most will never as much as be subjected to a thorough background check. The applications will be rubber-stamped. And, millions more will come.

I vehemently oppose legalization, because I believe in fair play. I don't believe people who chose to violate our laws should be rewarded, while the lawful are punished. None will be punished for ruining the lives of the millions they victimized through ID theft. None will be punished for tax evasion. None will be punished for willfully employing illegal aliens. None will be punished for filing fraudulent tax returns, claiming bogus children to receive tax refunds or EITC. Not one! How is that fair?

We are in total agreement on preferential treatment for the wealthy.