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Immigration
The United States of America is a nation founded by immigrants, and has a long tradition of providing sanctuary to those who have sought these shores hoping to achieve the American dream. Yet U.S. immigration policy faces significant challenges after the tragic events of September 11, 2001. The unauthorized entry of illegal immigrants is a major challenge facing Congress in the coming years, and the United States. I have strongly supported increases in the budget of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE, formerly the INS) and the Border Patrol to respond to illegal immigration. That said, there should be a clear distinction in the way we treat legal immigrants who respect the laws of our country and undocumented immigrants who break them. We should provide a clear path for earned legalization so that these individuals may contribute positively to our society.
Additionally, we should address the international situations which drive illegal immigration. Poverty and inequality in Latin American and other regions in the world force many to seek jobs in the United States. Increased U.S. aid to the hemisphere to assist in regional economic development in conjunction with increased border security will substantively address the issue of immigration to the United States.