Gephardt Proposal

Cal Thomas | Syndicated columnist | Published: Jul 23, 2002

Gephardt Proposal

Just when we need more control of our borders and more information about those who are here illegally and wish us harm, the leading Democrat in the House wants to make it easier for people to come here and stay illegally.

House Minority Leader Dick Gephardt, in a blatant attempt to win the Hispanic vote, is backing legislation that would grant permanent residence status to millions of illegal immigrants.

Speaking to a group of Hispanic activists in Florida, Gephardt said his proposal, which will probably be introduced in September, will bring illegals out of the shadows and help us fight terrorism. How's that for a spin? What it will do is encourage even more people to come here illegally, because it will send the message that if you can get here illegally, you can count on staying legally. Does that make sense? It doesn't to me.

Even The New York Times recognizes this as crass politics. Let's hope the Republicans don't vote for it, or, if it passes, that the President vetoes it. In an election year, though, nothing would surprise me. I'm Cal Thomas in Washington.

Gephardt Proposal