Skip wrote on Oct 24, 2006 10:05 PM:400 Million Here We Come! 300,061,232. Last night another 6,000 Illegal Aliens snuck over our Southern Border. Does anyone really think Comprehensive Immigration Reform will make any difference? There is a never ending supply of third world immigrants that want to come here for a better life. They won't stop coming because we tell them we have met our quotas. We have never really tried a real fence, so I do not want to hear it will not work.

Debbie to Skip wrote on Oct 24, 2006 11:11 PM:Skip - I don't disagree w your views, but wonder where the funds would come from for a "real fence"?

Skip wrote on Oct 24, 2006 11:22 PM:"At any cost” How long do you think our infrastructure, social programs, resources, and quality of life will hold out. 400 Million will be reached in our lifetime. I was in High School when the population was 200 million, and I can definitely see a difference. I guess the answer to your question is how long do you want to see the United States be like you remembered it, or for your children's future. If we can pay for an unpopular war certainly we can pay for a fence.

JIGSAW wrote on Oct 24, 2006 11:25 PM:According to Mexican officials, until there isn't a wage difference between Mexico and the U.S., illegal will keep crossing illegaly. So, according to them, the problem will be solved when Mexico increases its wages or the U.S. lowers its wages. Either one is extremely unlikely. These Mexican official ... really know how to explain this problem. Next thing they'll say is "until the United States becomes Mexico, immigrants will stop crossing illegaly". How about "until you give a ... about your people and stop encouragind them to freeload from our country!".

Counts Right! wrote on Oct 24, 2006 11:55 PM:Yep, its the same count I came up with, waiting in line at the Tri-City Hospital Emergency Ward. They were all there waiting to see a doctor about something!

One person, one vote wrote on Oct 25, 2006 12:10 AM:It would be fair if one person's vote was worth as much as another person's vote. Looking at the elections results of the 2004 elections, one finds that 289,328 votes were cast in the 50th congressional district, but only 108,783 votes were cast in the 47th congressional district (Orange County). A look at current register voter tallys finds 356,510 registered voters in the 50th congressional district, but only 193,389 registered voters in the 47th congressional district. It appears that the vote of a voter in the 47th congressional district is worth twice that of a voter in the 50th congressional district. Too bad the article did not list the illegal alien population of the 47th congressional district. Maybe the Bennett and Sifuentes did not want the public to know too much about the issue of illegal-alien-caused vote dillution!

CORRECTION wrote on Oct 25, 2006 12:13 AM:Hey NCT, since when did Bilbray become "R-Escondido"? He's "R-EsconMarcosCarlsSolanDelDiego". Also, how many illegal immigrants are there by city?

Illegal Immigrant Cause No Harm wrote on Oct 25, 2006 12:20 AM:Unless you want your vote to count as much as a voter is a safe hispanic district gerrymandered to use illegal immigrants to give hispanic voters twice the voting power. No wonder Vicente Fox was strutting about California last summer like he owned the place.

Floyd wrote on Oct 25, 2006 12:28 AM:Wait ... seven percent of the population is here illegally? Didn't we just learn from the don't-rent-to-illegals case in Escondido that Latinos form 40% of that city's population and half of them are illegal? That translates to a level of 20% of the population, and even then it only counts the illegal Latino aliens and ignores all the other illegals currently in our country. Excuse me, but I don't believe your 7% figure. Go back and try again.

C.A. Jones wrote on Oct 25, 2006 2:13 AM: Why is it that in my every day travels in and about North San Diego County about 30 percent of the people seem to be illegal. I see them siting along the side of supermarkets having beer, going door to door asking for work. riding bycles about, Etc. At any rate we should open the gates and pay them an amount equal to three months wages of a National Guardsman to go back across the border and be sure they can't come back.

Disgusted wrote on Oct 25, 2006 4:15 AM:While driving on Encinitas Blvd. Monday I saw a huge crowd of illegals hanging out on a busy corner waiting to be hired for day jobs. If our citizens didn't provide them with work they would leave. My neighbor bragged to me how he hired an illegal for the day to help him with some heavy yard work and what a bargain it was at $80. These are the kind of idiots that keep the illegals here, not stopping to think about how much the real cost is in terms of their free medical care, schooling for their kids, etc. Each person who gives these illegals a day job ensures that these people will multiply here.

Dave wrote on Oct 25, 2006 5:42 AM:Prop T is a great example of the impact illegal immigration is having on our quality of life. Instead of paying what work out to $150.00 a year for the average house in North County to pay for a larger Tri city hospital, why not use the money for a fence. Just in Oceanside there are about 60,000 houses, but only about 1/3 of that number will be billed for prop T so let’s take that $3,000,000.00 for just one years increase in property taxes and spend it on the border fence.

El Guero wrote on Oct 25, 2006 6:36 AM:'More vigorous' interior enforcement? How about ANY interior enforcement?

Mary wrote on Oct 25, 2006 7:21 AM:A real fence is cheaper than all the social welfare that will be sapped by all the illegals. Most I see are pregant with 4 kids in tow. A true invasion.

These numbers are wrote on Oct 25, 2006 7:28 AM:WAY too low I think. I believe the press and our government doesn't want to own up to the REAL numbers. I would bet the number of illegal aliens in our country is a lot closer to 20 million. And a few hundred thousand in southern CA? GET real!

PendleTechie wrote on Oct 25, 2006 7:57 AM:check out this for more informationa as well, call in (if you can) and be heard as well: ... I think we all need to remember that as much as George may be able to ASK Congress to pass a law the only body that can make a law in this country that affects the whole country is Congress. You'll get more of a response getting the people in your area calling the your Senators and Representatives out on this issue and telling them you'll not vote them back in than you will asking for George's job. George is on the way out - or have you forgotten his second term ends in two years? He's not going to care - he's set. Watch how your Congresspersons vote and call them out on this issue if you want to see real change. Midterm elections are almost here....check these voting records and vote out your local Senator or Congressperson if they didn't vote to protect our borders. GET OUT AND VOTE! You want to protect our borders? Children born to illegals aliens in this country are paid for by us the tax payers. We house criminals who are illegal aliens for terms up to life sentences (shouldn't they be sent home instead)? Gang violence and transient crimes in border areas are associated with the illegal immigrants, human traffickers, and drug runners. We have illegal immigrants enslaving people in Santa Barbara ... We have illegal immigrants driving COMPANY CARS and killing people while drinking and driving (a third time offense and fourth time in the country - thank you AM 600). A good percentage of our death row convicts are here in California illegally too! Illegal immigrants only come for one reason...WORK. Take away the jobs, that is, punish the employers who want to pay third world wages and no benefits to save a few dollars now and you'll see the illegals stop coming, going home, or applying for citizenship. They have openly admitted time and time again, they come for the work and the sent nearly 20 BILLION DOLLARS out of our country last year. You get a job, and you pay bills, pay taxes, and spend the money where you live; they get a job and they send it out of the country. You think Americans won't do the jobs you want done? What about ...hirepatriots... where you can hire our service men and women to do odd jobs or work for your business? Did you know that many of our service men and women make so little money they can actually apply for W.I.C. to feed their children? You are quick to yell "Buy American" for goods, so what about the same for labor? You're quick to tie a yellow ribbon and say you support our troops - so why not support them this way too? This link shows every vote made by Congress Since 1991. ... GET OUT AND VOTE!! (Before illegals get legal licenses and the right to vote since motor-voter doesn't require a citizenship check.)

Tired of Illegals wrote on Oct 25, 2006 8:16 AM:Only 7 percent! Whoever did the counting wasn't in Escondido this morning!

This invasion must stop now! wrote on Oct 25, 2006 8:25 AM:This study is of no surprise to anyone on either side of this issue, we must draw the line in the sand now and end this invasion from the south. There is no greater issue before the voters in the 50CD. Enter legally or dont come in at all!!

Dan (Temecula) wrote on Oct 25, 2006 8:36 AM: This is why we must let are police engage in helping the border patrol inside are own country, instead of only are border's. Illegal's are desparate people who are willing to commit violent crimes in order to get away. The violence has skyrocketed in the last year against are border patrol agents, so I believe a little, or alot of help from are police is warantted. The local police is to protect and serve, so asking them to serve on this issue is not to much to ask. I also believe in order to do that we need more police, border patrol agents, and a two layer fence hooked up to high voltage lines, and up are taxes to help fund all of this. I know it's not fair we get stuck with the tab when are money has already been put to waste, but I'm willing to accept that, and I believe most taxpayers would to. We must not give in to these illegals who are here for the wrong reason's. (that being the majority of the estimate) So I say round them up send them home, and turn on the power that generates enough shock that also go's 20 feet under ground. I would apreciate my money going toward that. Not to kill but to detterre from jumping, digging, or cutting the fence. Raise your hand if you agree!!! God bless America, not Mexico, and it's corruption.

Concerned wrote on Oct 25, 2006 8:47 AM:An observation: The story does not use the word "Latino" untill the very end of this long story. However, it does refer to it in the context of Latino communities. I'm sure some would consider this a racist view, from a politically correct perspective. Is it racist to equate illegal immigration to populations of Latinos? Or is it reality?

real fence offensive wrote on Oct 25, 2006 8:49 AM:I think Skip means the kind of fence with barbed wire, flood lights and watch towers with armed guards who are ready to shoot to kill.

Pluto 2 Skip wrote on Oct 25, 2006 8:58 AM:It's mucho dishonest to suggest the increase in population is due to "illegals", when the vast majority is home-grown. There are some population control groups you could get involved with. Other countries have tried it. There is a lot to learn. Or you could agitate among Catholics, Mormons, and others who take "be fruitful and multiply" too literally. Immigrants don't cost anything and aren't the main problem, just an easy scapegoat. Our whole economy is based on "growth" and needs immigrants of all kinds. Downsizing and outsourcing and bankrupticies have taken your jobs. Mexican immigrants are victims of the same economic forces and trends.

PJ wrote on Oct 25, 2006 8:59 AM:Thanks Skip and JIGSAW...your comments are my sentiments, exactly. As an RN in a very large clinic for the medically indigent, I am so tired of seeing the expenses of maintaing health care for the illegal alien population. If the general population could spend a day in my shoes, and see what these freeloaders EXPECT from our health care system it would quickly change the minds of any supporters of illegal immigration.

Crunching the Numbers wrote on Oct 25, 2006 9:04 AM:As middle class incomes stagnate, the costs of health care, energy and simply living, the real question becomes how long can we afford to provide illegals the free services they depend on to have a better life? While our own elderly, disabled and working poor have no health care, we provide it to illegals for free. While our own children are not being educated to compete in the global marketplace, we pour money into programs to teach the illegals English. While jobs that were once held by working class, taxpaying middle class citizens in construction, food and hospitality services, landscaping, etc. are being taken by illegals who don't pay taxes and are paid cash, the pool of tax dollars upon which we depend to provide services to our citizens is quickly draining. The real question becomes when will the American people wake up and say, "The buck stops here, we simply cannot afford to continue to provide free education, health care, social services, etc. for illegals until we provide the best quality services for our own citizens." Once we start going after the employers for tax evasion, fraud and charge them huge fines, more middle class jobs will evaporate into the new underground economy. If politicians start representing, "those who make a valuable contribution" in their district who are not citizens, the whole process of becoming a citizen, the value of being a citizen and both the rights and obligations of citizenship, all become MOOT points!

Pluto to Jigsaw wrote on Oct 25, 2006 9:09 AM:The Mexican officials are merely describing reality. They don't control the spigot, nobody does. People cross borders from relatively poor countries to relatively rich countries. It's a law of nature. It happens in every part of the world, in every historical epoch. The greater the wealth differential, the bigger and easier the border, the more will cross. The only way to solve this problem is to create a Marshall Plan for Mexico, help bring their economy up like we did in Europe after WWII. It should have been done long ago. Mexico would be a better trading and other partner. There wouldn't be such prolems with corruption, drugs and gangs. Since the solution is so obvious, we must ask ourselves if somebody powerful likes things this way. If so, who and why?

dennis wrote on Oct 25, 2006 9:18 AM:Study after study points out this egregious problem and still nothing is done. Something must be done and done now. We have procrastinated too long already. Out of control immigration is not a good thing for this country. For a fine analysis of this problem read Pat Buchanon's new book wherein he discusses the overall effects of this situation. It will enlighten and alarm you . The immediate effects are obvious. The invisible effects are far reaching, permanent in nature, not so obvious, and culturally destructive. Do not vote for any candidate who is not firmly against illegal immigration and controls over all immigration. If this is not addressed we will live in a totally different society in short order where we cannot reverse the damage done. Watch the European situation to get an idea of the effects of balkanization of a nation. France and England have sectors of their cities they cannot safely enter. The immigrants, Muslims in these cases, have virually seized control there. We are headed for that. Look at the Mexican dilema....corruption, poor earnings per capita, health problems, narco terrorists everywhere. We headed there? I fear we could be if action is not forthcoming.

7% yeah right wrote on Oct 25, 2006 9:35 AM:I don't thing the 7% is an accurate figure. From living in North County it seems much higher than that. Some places I have been I can't even find poeple that speak english. Don't get me wrong I am not a U.S citizen either but have my green card. I pay my taxes and all my other social costs. Being a military brat growing up, I have lived in many differnt countries and have learned the the language of the land to the best of my abilites. I just can stand the fact that I go places here and can't find anyone that speaks english. Especially the ones that have been here 10+ years really get my blood boiling. I am tired of paying for them and wish the gov would stop giving hand outs and making it so easy for them here. Props to Escondido, would be nice if other government bodies local/state/federal would step up to the plate and grow a pair and do the same thing. Maybe then they we would see a reverse trend. We need to find people that are proud to be here, respect the country and want to help build the country back to its former glory. For the rest who complain about living here or expect handouts need to go home. I would be ther first person willing to give them the boot. Kinda seems hypocritical of me since I am imigrant but I love this country and am greatful for being here. Now I just need to get of my lazy bum and file my citizenship paperwork ;)

Press 1 for English, Press 2 for Deportation wrote on Oct 25, 2006 9:42 AM:To Debbie, Here is where the funds come. For each illegal we catch, we charge a pro rata portion of the cost of the fence and ALL federal and state costs related to border enforcement, jailing illegals, transporting them back to their country of origin, etc. to the nation from which they fled. If that nation does not pay, we either a) add import duties to all exports from that country entering the US, or b) just ban all exports from that country until they pay up.

This is it! wrote on Oct 25, 2006 10:04 AM:I want to know the names of who besides Bush, in the Congress and the Senate is not enforcing our laws and I want charges of dereliction of duties and treason brought against them! I am writing my congressman, we want names!!! This is all we can stand!!

Press 1 for English, wrote on Oct 25, 2006 10:51 AM:Press 2 to Hang Up and Call Back When You learn English ...... It is expecting a lot to think that Illegal immigrants will readily learn English. Most Illegal immigrants do not even have much of an education in their own language. I keep wondering what will happen to all these people when they are too old to do back breaking manual work.

Hey NCT wrote on Oct 25, 2006 11:10 AM:How about just once in a story, use the correct term "Illegal Aliens" Most people who leave comments know the term. A better title for the story would have been "272 THOUSAND ILLEGAL ALIENS IN RIVERSIDE & SAN DIEGO COUNTIES" and if that is not bad enough, the amounts of Illegal Aliens are growing without any control.

El Guero wrote on Oct 25, 2006 11:15 AM:LIke so many other immigration 'trimmers,' Pluto to Jigsaw has it only half right when he says, 'Mexican officials don't control the spigot, nobody does. People cross borders from relatively poor countries to relatively rich countries. It's a law of nature.' Actually, Mexico is a very rich country, not a poor one. The reason so many people cross the border from Mexico is that Mexico's ruling elite refuse to tax themselves to create economic opportunity in Mexico. They'd rather earn dividends on their investments in other people's economies and take vacations on the French Riviera twice a year. Like Russia before the revolution, Mexico's problem is a problem of wealth distribution that it refuses to fix. Only unlike Russia, Mexico's ruling elite have a willing sugardaddy on their northern border will to turn a blind eye to an invasion of all their poor peasants. Mexico has the lowest taxation rates in all of Latin America and why should it change when everything is going so well for the wealthy, landed, ruling elite? Before commenting again, Pluto, you might want to do a little research so you don't appear so foolish.

OVER A QUARTER MILLION wrote on Oct 25, 2006 11:30 AM:How about this title for the story? Over a Quarter Million Illegal Aliens now live in Riverside and San Diego Counties ! ..... and more on the way. When thee word "Pegged" is used it sounds like the population has stopped growing. I don't think so.

This I Believe wrote on Oct 25, 2006 11:37 AM:My grandfather worked hard in this country, both for his family and for his US citizenship. I have friends who have come through the "back door" to this country and are now citizens. I sympathized for our Mexican compadres who cross the border illegally to make a life for themselves and their families. However, the USA is governed by laws that protect our citizens. We need to know who's coming across our borders for we citizen pay the cost of hosting illegal aliens. People need to come through the "front door" to legally immigrate here. I've been near the US/MEX border near the Cleveland National Forest. I've seen the makeshift booties made from ponchos and clothes "hecho en Mexico" left in the hills. This experience has changed my mind! Many illegal aliens die these deserts! We need a strong, fortified border--deep, high and wide! I've heard that some say a border like this would shake the faith of those trying to cross. I say that it would symbolize our commitment to respect and uphold our laws of the land. If you love our country, you'll respect and uphold the law. If you want to be here, then come through the front door!

To Pluto, What Planet are you on? wrote on Oct 25, 2006 11:42 AM:Recently, the U.S. government and the Pew Hispanic Center estimated that the United States has 12 million unauthorized immigrants. About 3 million of them, mostly from Mexico, live in California. Latinos have the nation's highest birthrates among major population groups. Uncontrolled population growth in this country is primarily due to Illegal Aliens and their offspring.

Hector wrote on Oct 25, 2006 11:54 AM:Hey anybody read the free NCT today? It has an article asking for food and clothes donations for the day labors in Vista. Yeah right, what about taking care of American elderly first!

DON'T vote for FEINSTEIN wrote on Oct 25, 2006 12:00 PM:even though I am a Democrat I cannot support Feinsteins liberal give them amnesty views on ILLEGAL immigration. I am pro-choice and pro anyone can get married, but I DID vote for the Republican. Maybe if we BOOT OUT FEINSTEIN, this time BOXER will wake up and realize we mean business when we want ENFORCEMENT NOW and Deportation and NO AMNESTY!!!

Pegged wrote on Oct 25, 2006 12:10 PM:English 101 : To fix (a price) at a certain level or within a certain range; Journalism. to base (an article, feature story, etc.) upon; justify by (usually fol. by on): Region's illegal immigrant population pegged at 272,000 >>> Not for long. Illegal immigration is out of control and rising.

Mary wrote on Oct 25, 2006 12:20 PM:I make it a habit to either halve or double any government number depending on how it benefits government. Since this report is trying to disguise the number of illegals - I would double the number to 544,000. Following this rule will usually get you closer to the truth.

Escondido Citizen wrote on Oct 25, 2006 12:22 PM:From: Philadephia Daily News 10/15/06: But Pendergraph took advantage of a little-known program, authorized by Section 287(g) of the 1996 Immigration and Nationality Act, to effectively turn deputies into immigration agents. Ten deputies and two officers were trained by federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials and then given authority to identify and detain illegal immigrants in their custody. And they were given access to the ICE database. Whats wrong with North County Cops can't you do the same? Given access to ICE database, Escondido Ban will work!

Patrick wrote on Oct 25, 2006 12:56 PM:How do all of you geniuses think they are able to live here?? AMERICAN EMPLOYERS. If you so called patriots etc were obeying the law, i.e. IT IS ILLEGAL TO HIRE ILLEGAL ALIENS, we wouldn't have this problem!

PendleTechie to Concerned wrote on Oct 25, 2006 12:58 PM:My comments were not only pointing at Latinos/Mexicans/Hispanics. The people I mentioned that are going to jail for a couple of years and then being deported are from Egypt. Check out what Lou Dobbs of CNN has to say - and what the public has to say to him as well. It's all easy to find. There are stories coming up often now in all news media on the web. Spend one hour of our time looking around and you'll gain quite an education on the issue.

Greg From Oceanside wrote on Oct 25, 2006 1:10 PM:Mexicans here illegally ARE NOT good for this country. Why? Let us count the ways, shall we? First, those illegal aliens actually 'working' are usually paid cash, which means they do not contribute their fair share towards the tax burden and several send a signaficant portion of their earnings back to Mexico so it isn't being recycled into our economy. And that argument that illegal aliens are doing the jobs that Americans won't is a fallacy. Just go to any construction site and see for yourself, there's an abundance of laborers that are here illegally doing the jobs that American tradesmen should/could be doing. Just look at our social welfare system, and you'll see that illegal alien Mexicans have learned to 'work the system' and receive anything from free lunches in our school system to WIC and food stamps. Speaking of schools, just go to any number of schools here in San Diego for example, and there are Mexicans here illegally, and some that actually drive their children across the border each day attending classes at tax-payer expense. Look at any emergency room or maternity ward in our hospitals. How many of the hispanic patients are actually here legally? And how many walk away from their bill scott free and expect us the taxpayers to pay their bill? Look at our justice system, how many illegal aliens do you suppose are in jail and awaiting trial for crimes? How much domestic violence/abuse cases do you think are attributed to illegal aliens? How many of the DUI and alcohol-related incidents are related to illegal aliens? How many children of illegal aliens drop out of school and become a burden to us? I could go on and on and on, but I think we all see the pattern and the picture. Illegal aliens ARE NOT good for America, they're a huge burden.

SM wrote on Oct 25, 2006 1:24 PM:you guys better start learning spanish. there isn't anything you can do to stop it. nothing. your stupid fence isn't going to work either. so just deal with it.

fence won't work wrote on Oct 25, 2006 1:30 PM:A fence won't work. They are already tunneling under the one we've got. We need interior enforcement. Document every one you deport. First time they get a free ride back to the border. Second time they get one year forced labor. Third time they get two years forced labor. And so on. Eliminater the automatic citizinship for children born here of illeagals. Most importantly prosicute anyone who hires an illeagal. Corporation or or home owner.

To Fence: wrote on Oct 25, 2006 1:56 PM:I agree home owners should be prosecuted for hiring illegals just as much as employers and landlords who rent to them.

OMG!! wrote on Oct 25, 2006 2:19 PM:The new Vista, Escondido, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Oceanside ordinances are just spitting on a forest fire to put it out. Quarter of a million plus illegals swarming this region is inexusable. Put the blame on Bush's liberal border controls and his friendship with Presidente Fox. Blame the employers who hire them.

Gary in Murrieta wrote on Oct 25, 2006 2:19 PM:The fence near San Diego has been over 95% effective in stopping the flow. I think that is a pretty good start. The object of the fence is to channel the illegals into areas where we have more resources and control. If we channel all of the illegals into one particular crossing we can use satellite images and catch them. One of the side effects of the fence is that more and more illegals go to the deserts of Arizona, and unfortunately for them they die.

THE POLITICIANS WON'T WORK wrote on Oct 25, 2006 2:33 PM:Besides the fences, and the fining of employers and landlords, we will not get much accomplished until the politicians start representing the will of United States Middle Class Citizen Taxpayers. The vast majority of United states citizens want illegal Immigration Stopped, and all other immigration strictly controlled!

Put them in jail: wrote on Oct 25, 2006 2:33 PM:Then put the employers in jail too. Then take a look at what that costs.

Concerned wrote on Oct 25, 2006 2:41 PM:Where are all the pro illegals today? In this whole string only SM had an opposing POV. And he/she sounds more like a defeatest than an advocate. That said, let's get out their and vote our minds, and let our representatives know where we stand. Say good night Diane!

In Other News wrote on Oct 25, 2006 2:49 PM:Arizona has been ranked as the stupidest state (50) in the nation; by the "Morgan Quitno Press" (2006-2007 Smartest State Awards). Arizona also ranked as the state with the highest number of Illegal Aliens by capita (over 300,000). Don't start laughing yet as California ranked number 47 out of 50, and we have well over 3 million Illegal Aliens. The smartest state is Vermont and they have less then 20,000 Illegal Aliens.

PendleTechie wrote on Oct 25, 2006 2:55 PM:... Illegal immigrants only come for one reason...WORK. Take away the jobs, that is, punish the employers who want to pay third world wages and no benefits to save a few dollars now and you'll see the illegals stop coming, going home, or applying for citizenship. They have openly admitted time and time again, they come for the work and the sent nearly a BILLION DOLLARS out of our country last year. You get a job, and you pay bills, they get a job and they send it out of the country. You think Americans won't do the jobs you want done? What about hirepatriots where you can hire our service men and women to do odd jobs or work for your business? Did you know that many of our service men and women make so little money they can actually apply for W.I.C. to feed their children? You are quick to yell "Buy American" for us to buy your goods and services, so what about the same for labor you use for those things you sell? You're quick to tie a yellow ribbon and say you support our troops - so why not support them this way too? Yes illegals cross the border and get a P.O. box to establish residency. Then they get W.I.C. and Welfare...why? The Laws don't check if they are citizens. Motor-voter won't check if you're a citizen, so give illegals legal driver's lisences and then they can vote too...WHAT?! Yes, it's the truth. You want to change all that...??? GET OUT OF YOUR CHAIR AND VOTE ON ELECTION DAY! Your employer is required to make sure, by law, that you have time to go and vote so GO! And again, you can blame Bush all you want, but the executive branch never has, nor ever will, make a LAW. That's for Congress and your legislatures. It's time for some of them to be voted for, go see who's putting laws into action you like and GET OUT AND VOTE! Make sure they know you are happy or not about the job they are doing. If you're not happy about it, vote against them - that is to say - you have the chance to say "You're fired!" Remember, public servants work FOR us, represent us - they need to remember who is really in charge. Not them, us. Without our votes, they have no job. GET OUT AND VOTE!

city of joy wrote on Oct 25, 2006 3:35 PM:this illegal invasion has gotten so bad that now were trying to stop it when we should have been enforcing our existing laws from the start but havent even to this day. if we followed no laws there would be the end of the world and for california its gonna get there if we dont stop this invasion. if you steal a car or break into someones home in this country your arrested right, its the same thing for illegals as far as i see it because there breaking into our home and stealing from our kids education, our health care, our honest american way of life. those of us here born here or legalized citizens have earned the right to work, buy homes and all the better things here because you did it the lawful way and you pay uncle sam for that privilage, illegals have 6 kids just so they can get food stamps or free government hand outs because what normal minded u.s. citizen would have that many kids when there not even employed or are and making just enough to get 1 person bye.. they know there breaking the law by crossing the border but because we catch and release them they just try again and again until there here. we need to catch and arrest these illegals and put them on a criminal file so if there caught again or try to use a fake or stolen form of id all it takes is a finger print scan and there they are. im glad were finally taking a stand because this country is ours not theres. if any of you live in escondido you should report anyone in which you think is housing illegals in single family homes and they will be investigated and busted in a few days from what i was told. 3 weeks till we can do this so when its time please do it for the better of your neighborhood and your kids safety. ... you will see a grat change to escondido with in a year because i've spoken to several friends and family who say there moving back here once the majority of illegals are out of here. this city will not be looked at as a haven for illegals anymore butmore like it was 25 years ago and thats a family friendly city where you know your neighbors and respect one an other. thank you

my 2-cents worth wrote on Oct 25, 2006 3:36 PM:I say send the hospital bills to Bush!

DMann wrote on Oct 25, 2006 4:07 PM:Nothing is ever goin to change people so deal with it. Our government has allowed this invasion for 30 yrs, ignoring every immigration law we have, and yes we already have immigration laws, our government just has chosen not to enforce them, and all and the expense of the American taxpayer. So all of you need to wake up, smell the coffee, and learn spanish.

One thing wrote on Oct 25, 2006 4:21 PM:I have noticed is that both Republicans and Democrats say that the war in Iraq is the biggest concern with the American voter. Yet I always see more blogs everywhere regarding illegal immigration. Could it be this is too hot of an issue for mere politicans to handle?

Skip wrote on Oct 25, 2006 5:05 PM:It really anoys me when "DMann" is right.

This I Believe to DMann wrote on Oct 25, 2006 5:12 PM:It sounds like you either a pacifist or you've just plain given up on fighting for rights US citizens have in this country! Change happens when we vote for and support people that will fight for a fortified US border and insist on tougher immigration policies. Citizens need to actively push for change! Of course, while it's worthwhile to "learn Spanish," never forget that the national language of this country is and should always be English; it unites US Americans of different nationalities and cultures. (I'm bilingual and part-Hispanic...I know that I'm not alone in my beliefs.)

Roberto wrote on Oct 25, 2006 5:38 PM:I'm bilingual (almost trilingual)...I can't believe all the paranoia (xenophobia) taking over. English is the language of international navigation, Engineering, business for those of you who don't get out of the country much. The Mexicans who choose to not learn english relegates themselves to being lower wage earners. It as simple as that. In Singapore for example, almost 20% of the population now speaks english in the home, In China when they find out I'm American, people get very excited about speaking english with me. The dynamics are that english isn't going anywhere, anytime soon...however the globe is getting smaller and learning a second, 3rd or 4th language is a plus. Yes, wake up and smell the coffee and learn Manderin, Spanish, English and many of the other languages of the world.

Christians go back to your roots! wrote on Oct 25, 2006 5:44 PM:It appears all our leaders have betrayed our trust; maybe we shouldn't have trusted man, but God. Maybe God was right afterall? "It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man." Psalm 118:8

Skip wrote on Oct 25, 2006 6:08 PM:There is that word again "xenophobia". We do not fear foreigners, or space aliens. We are trying to stop the invasion of Illegal Aliens who are jeopardizing our way of life. And we do not want to pay for their social services, education, health care, housing, etc..

Skip wrote on Oct 25, 2006 6:24 PM:A question for Roberto....... Let's say that everything you say is right. How many Illegal Aliens should we allow into this country? Another 10 Million, 20 Million, 30 million? How many more before we cease being America, and become some other country? Our National population now stands at 300,070,740. Do you think we can support 400 million? how about 500 million? is there any limit to how many people can comfortably live in the United States?

Hire New Immigrant wrote on Oct 25, 2006 6:27 PM:Former President Fox is out of work. I think the Govenors office should hire him, with illegals wages of course, to find a solution to the problems he has created getting fat off the income the illegals send home every month. Who knows, he is so friendly with the U.S. he probably has ddual Citizenship already.

THE SPP ( NORTH AMERICAN UNION) wrote on Oct 25, 2006 7:08 PM:A coalition spearheaded by Conservative Caucus Chairman Howard Phillips, author Jerome Corsi and activist Phyllis Schlafly is launching an effort today in support of a proposed congressional resolution that denounces any effort by the U.S. to enter into a North American Union with Mexico and Canada. Yesterday, Corsi announced the Internet release of about 1,000 documents obtained in a Freedom of Information Act request to the Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America. He says the documents show the White House is engaging in collaborative relations with Mexico and Canada outside the U.S. Constitution.

El Guero wrote on Oct 25, 2006 7:19 PM:Thanks, Skip, for asking a question that Roberto probably will elect not to answer: How many illegal aliens should we allow into the country? (That is, supposing 'we' have any say at all.) He'll probably fall back on the tired old canard about how immigrants (legal or illegal?) are the 'backbone' and lifeblood of the economy, and the more the merrier. No one takes his self-important rhetoric seriously, no matter how many languages he speaks.

I speak English wrote on Oct 25, 2006 7:37 PM:Call me narrow minded but I choose to speak English. I am not out in the world needing to speak another language. I am semi-fluent in Spanish. I don't go into another country and expect them to speak English. My choice is English. That is why I am here! I agree with you Skip. Enough in Enough!

Roberto wrote on Oct 25, 2006 8:24 PM:question for Roberto....... Let's say that everything you say is right. How many Illegal Aliens should we allow into this country? Another 10 Million, 20 Million, 30 million? REPLY: I have NEVER posted that I'm in favour of illegal immigration. I just don't buy the racist Minutemen, load up all 12 million illegals up etc. In fact I don't buy the solutions being brought to the table in many cases. Heres what I propose as a comprehensive immigration plan for starters: 1)National Identification system for all. (not just Mexicans) 2) Labour program (bracero)for farmers to avoid sending thousands of jobs out of the country.(these jobs support many other jobs)sorta like the the food chain. 3) Incentive program for citizenship a. US service b. Peace corp c. forestry service 4) Increase in legal applications (fines)to those who pay fees & apply....who already here and start following the rules. Others will be phased out by lack of employment after a period of time. 5) No giverment services of any kind to anyone...all through private organizations like churches. 6) Phase in stiffer penalties to employers of knowingly hire illegals. This almost reminds me of all the drugs coming to America...they keep coming because their is a demand. Deal with the demand. 12 million people are not leaving anytime soon in my opinion. And what is you you suggest we do?

bvv wrote on Oct 25, 2006 9:04 PM:IN RESPONSE to those who say that the $2 billion cost for 700 miles of border fence is too high: The Alaska pipeline cost $26 billion in today's dollars A fence doesn't need annual raises or a pension. It is on duty 24/7, doesn't get sick, doesn't take bribes or accidentally shoot poor immigrants in the night.

Tom wrote on Oct 25, 2006 9:39 PM:BW, Think about this. The 2 billion dollar cost to build a permanent fence along the border is approx. one weeks worth of cost in the Iraq war. No if that is not depressing I don't know what is. Proof positive we have a government controlled by corporations who don't want our borders secured. Bush sucks!

Politically Correct ? wrote on Oct 25, 2006 10:58 PM:The kind of fence Real fence offensive says Skip is calling for will of course never happen. It isn't PC, after all. Armed guards with orders shoot to kill--can you just imagine the ... storm that would ensue ... When I think about it, it makes my head ache.

PendleTechie wrote on Oct 26, 2006 8:45 AM:How about this then if you don't want to build the fence... 1) Increase the penalties for employers hiring illegals and actually enforce the laws. 2) Since they seem to be able to "make it illegal" to stop people from playing online gambling (ie sending funds overseas without taxing them) block all wire transfers going out of the country unless they go from bank account to bank account. 3) Make it illegal for banks and landlords to do business with illegal aliens. (ie Require proof of citizenship to live in our country and bank in our country). 4) All person arrested must verify citizenship. If they are here illegally, deport them. Oh, and if you think a real fence/wall won't help the problem - try looking at a real world example the Berlin Wall and the Great Wall of China they worked for their times and the ideas can be adapted for our times and situation.

I must be losing it wrote on Oct 26, 2006 12:57 PM:I actually agree with Roberto though I wish he would stop using that "word". I am of Mexican Descent but I am ready to join the minutemen because our government is not taking responsibilty of the borders! If we had a bracero program then those that wanted to work could. I have heard of these suggestions before. No work, no freebies. We as citizens need to speak up loud and clear. Everyone is so afraid that something will be politically incorrect and be called a racist if we want harsher penalties. What is so bad about a fence? It protects both sides. What other country allows illegals entering their countries.

VoteOnTuesday wrote on Oct 26, 2006 1:12 PM:Bush signed the fence bill this morning five years after 9/11. Only about 50 House Republicans are serious about border security, based on their voting records. The rest of the House and virtually all of the Senate wants the status quo, but enough of them were scared of a public backlash enough to go along with this bill that it got passed. Bush's heart wasn't in it either, but he figures it's a prerequisite to passing his beloved amnesty scheme after the elections. Everybody needs to look at their representatives' voting records. Despite what Pedro Rios said in the article above, these guys are not elected to represent illegal aliens (foreign nationals). Vote out the ones that have been doing this.

ifightback wrote on Oct 26, 2006 3:25 PM:Can I ask all of you who made comments what you're doing about the situation? Hace you researched your reps to see how they voted on critical immigration issues? Have you educated your friends & families about the issue? Have you contaced your politicians & demanded they get tough? If we continue to sit & be silent we'll lose our country. We're losing it right now ... check to see how your reps voted. If they don't have a "B" grade or better, TOSS THEM OUT OF OFFICE!!!!!!

Roberto wrote on Oct 27, 2006 3:42 PM:I must be losing it wrote on October 26, 2006 12:57 PM:"I actually agree with Roberto. Reply: I think the Minute man are enbedded with racist and xenophobes. Many are good people with good intentions but this issues has drawn them (racist and xenophobes) into the Minute men like flies. If Escondido really wanted to clean up their neighborhood they would have passed ordinances about cars parking on lawns, how many people can occupy a dwelling, trash cans etc. This was not the case and has only escalated this nasty situation...

Juan wrote on Oct 27, 2006 8:36 PM:To sm; There is something being done about it! They're just not making a big deal out of it but enforcement of laws HAS begun. By the way your attitude is just making the hole that much DEEPER for your friends.

M wrote on Oct 27, 2006 8:59 PM:To Roberto: You must be a very unhappy person to never give an inch on anything. I believe you take all this MUCH to personally. A lot of people on here are simply venting. I get upset about these things too. I get so angry because I think our people are being VERY unreasonable. Then one of them did something SO VERY NICE for me this week, and my heart goes out to them. Making me wonder if I just don't spend enough time with people of my heritage. Sure there's a lot of racist taking advantage right now, but anger is NOT always hatred. You know I actually went back and reread your post I think you're starting to make more sense.

Enforce Immigration Laws wrote on Oct 27, 2006 10:02 PM:If people vote democrats in they are for sure asking for amnesty. Look at our state assemblymembers and state senators. Most of the republicans in this state have been fighting hard to secure our borders and enforce our laws. Busby is really going after Bilbray this time and I sure hope people aren't falling for her crap. She is right there with the other democrats. Shes the one that told the voters they didn't need ID's to vote. She's for comprehensive immigration which is amnesty for the almost 3 million illegals in California alone. People gripe about the traffic. Do you remember May 1? It was free moving on the freeway. We don't need to pay for more freeways, schools, prisons, jails, and hospitals. We just need to enforce immigration laws and secure our border.

Roberto wrote on Oct 28, 2006 8:19 AM:M wrote on October 27, 2006 8:59 PM:" REPLY: Thank you for your candid assesment. This was in a letter to the editor: "This is the same way they started on the Jews, little by little. All Hispanics will be affected once they build the hate" I believe an inclusionary process is the only way to deal with this issue. As for Juan "By the way your attitude is just making the hole that much DEEPER for your friends." Do you mean a hole in the 2000 mile border which just recently had a 700 miles of fencing voted for and only 350 miles funded? Are you going to punish my friends for sneaking around working? Maybe you should consider a comprehensive immigration reform plan.

NIKKO wrote on Oct 30, 2006 8:07 AM:...and they all live on my street.

K wrote on Oct 30, 2006 11:55 AM:To Nikko; My street too. They repealed the 55 and over sanctuary. 95 percent moved. Let me remind you these people were on fixed incomes. Now when I go outside it's like the twighlight zone. Same duplexes but EXACTLY like TJ.

Gary in Murrieta wrote on Oct 31, 2006 8:33 PM:I just took my daughter out for Trick or Treat. We have a lot of kids in the neighborhood now. After about a half hour I noticed that there were cars (mostly Nice SUV's and pick-up trucks) parking on the street corners and letting out all kinds of kids to go Trick or Treating. What I immediately noticed was that all of the kids and adults spoke only Spanish. I did not mind at first but then a pick-up truck pull up with 12 screaming non English Speaking kids and just let them loose. This has been going on for a couple of years now but it is getting worse and worse. What really annoys me is that all of these kids clean out the houses of treats, and that cuts the activities short for the kids that really live in the neighborhood. This is why I am so against illegal Immigration, because these people come here with a sense of entitlement and ruin it for everyone. It would be Ok if it was just a few kids, but what are you going to do when it is hundreds. And that is what I saw tonight in my neighborhood.

Sanguine wrote on Nov 1, 2006 12:41 AM:2.75 million illegal aliens in California? And California has 10% of the country's 300 million population, or 30 million. That means the illegal alien density can't be less than 9% -- where did they get the "nearly 7%" figure? (Insert public-school-educated joke here).

Enforce immigration laws wrote on Nov 1, 2006 8:06 AM:Sanguine I was thinking the same thing. It has to higher. If our community is an example it's much higher. Gary in Murrieta this is only one small example of what is being taken from citizens and legal immigrants. Check out Dick Mountjoy for senate and vote Feinstein out. Bilbray and Issa have been fighting hard to do something for a long time about illegal immigration. Wyland also. Filner needs to retire.