Governor accused of "immigrant-bashing"

The Sacramento Bee recently published an article on the front page titled, “Governor causes immigration stir”. In the article Governor Schwarzenegger is, of all things, accused of immigrant-bashing. An immigrant himself, he knows first hand what it’s like to have to go through the immigration process — legally.

What about “illegal” don’t the critics understand? They try to paint proponents for stronger control of our borders as racists. Why? Contrary to what the opponents say, the desire to stop or reduce illegal immigration has absolutely nothing at all to do with racism.

The United States of America, like most countries, has laws to control immigration. For obvious reasons — not the least of which is security — we want to know not only who, but how many people are immigrating to America. And for those who don’t know or understand the reasons, their ignorance disqualifies them from making a credible argument. Those who accuse proponents of illegal immigration as racists are lying and misleading the public to advance an political agenda.

The United States of America has welcomed with open arms those who use the legal process of immigrating to America. I have several immigrant friends who live and work here, and they are productive citizens of our society and work force. They are here legally. I have heard first hand what steps they have taken (more like hoops they have to jump through), and continue to take, to get here and remain here legally. It is not fair to Americans — and it is certainly not fair to the immigrants who are here legally — that illegal aliens are allowed to cross our borders pretty much at will. We are not saying, “We don’t want you.” We are saying, “You must follow the established, legal immigration process.” Illegal immigration should be stopped. And it has nothing to do with racism!