Danny wrote on Mar 24, 2008 11:52 PM:About time someone tackled this issue.

Floyd wrote on Mar 25, 2008 12:06 AM:The legislation focuses on illegal aliens who are trespassing in the USA, which is not immigration. Immigration occurs when you legally cross a federal border into a country. Trespassing occurs when you are in an area without permission. The law forbidding trespass can be enforced at all levels of government, not just by the federal government.

Miguel wrote on Mar 25, 2008 12:46 AM:"Pedro Rios, director of the San Diego office of the American Friends Service Committee, a Quaker human rights organization, said he was troubled by the proposals. Dealing with immigration policy is a federal responsibility, he said."

So Mr. Rios, you are troubled because dealing with illegals should only be done by the feds? You are basically saying even though illegal immigration costs are crippling our state, we can do nothing about it?

So we should lay down, roll over and open our check books to support the "protected" illegal aliens until the federal government comes to our rescue. No thank you!

I'm all for E-Verify! The pro illegal people will probably say it could possibly cause some legal residents trouble. Well this legal resident (yes, I have brown skin) is willing to take any extra steps I need to, to prove that I am in this country legally!! No problema!!

Stephen wrote on Mar 25, 2008 1:07 AM:It's about time California did something about the illegal aliens. We are facing a 16 billion dollar deficit and we have half of the nation's illegals in our state. Other states are getting tough and enforcing immigration laws. If California doesn't act now, we'll have nearly all of them here. That should just about double our state budget deficit. Be legal or be gone!

Local wrote on Mar 25, 2008 2:00 AM:These bills have a much greater chance of passing now that the economy is in the tank. Charity begins at home. I know that I will be supporting these bills. We no longer have the right to be so liberal with taxpayer money.

MJ wrote on Mar 25, 2008 2:36 AM:I have no doubt that there will be a very large number of comments to this article .... the subject matter is a touchstone. The sad truth is that we are just spinning our wheels, having heated arguments that accomplish nothing. We can vent, gripe, groan and bemoan .... but nothing changes. The sad truth is that the Democrats want captive votes (thus, power and money) and the Republicans want captive cheap labor (thus, money and power). History will play itself out, but it is sad to see what has become of this beautiful State I was born and raised in.

Ron wrote on Mar 25, 2008 4:23 AM:Nice sentiment guy's, but these bills will never pass with the democrat socialists in Sacramento run by Don Perata, and Fabian Núñez. Thank goodness for Prop. 93, these two clowns are on their way out of government. For those who don't know who these two men are; Fabian Núñez is the California Assembly Speaker who seems to be more interested in representing Mexico than California. While Senate President pro Tem Don Perata is busy making statements about: “all these crackers down in . . . San Diego."
So long fellas, don't let the door hit you on your way out!

handout or hand up? wrote on Mar 25, 2008 4:58 AM:our state NEEDS to use some 'common sense' and this is the first step. I continue to hope the parties can work together for the good of the state. I'm fine with the free education - but make it mandatory that you go BACK to your own country for 5 years and use that free education to help your own country prosper.

Pro-American wrote on Mar 25, 2008 5:23 AM:More laws is a good start, again. We need more enforcement of the existing laws.

Dude wrote on Mar 25, 2008 6:10 AM:I'm surprised that Edward Sifuentes titled this article Anti Illegal Immigrant. Doesn't he usually just call it Anti Immigrant?
These bills have zero chance of passing. They need to become citizen initiatives.
That's what they had to do in AZ when they were vetoed.

Divisive wrote on Mar 25, 2008 6:10 AM:I agree these laws will be divisive. They will divide us into legal and illegal resident status. By the way, that .45 auto I'm carrying is not illegal - I'm just an undocumented concealed carry permit holder.

AOPA wrote on Mar 25, 2008 6:26 AM:Even if these bills are passed, who actually thinks they will be enforced?
Yours, A Once Proud American

Do you hear that OCEANSIDE!!! wrote on Mar 25, 2008 6:36 AM:Assembly Bill 2420 would prohibit cities from declaring themselves "sanctuary cities" for illegal immigrants and not allowing their police to cooperate with federal immigration authorities. NO MORE DIVERSITY FOR YOU!!!

JSten wrote on Mar 25, 2008 6:46 AM:
We dont/cant/wont enforce the laws we have on the books now. This is no different. This is just a way for the white folks to diss the brown folks, most of whom are here legally and who probably date back before us in ancestry.

Pass the bleepin law, it wont make any difference.

Common sense please wrote on Mar 25, 2008 7:04 AM:Sorry JSten most are here ILLEGALLY just do a survey on Vista, Oceanside and Escondido. You must not live in this area if you lived here you would know otherwise.

Tribal member wrote on Mar 25, 2008 7:21 AM:You are ALL here illegally.

But I welcome you to our casino anyway. It's about time to trade in my Mercedes.

Hasta La-way to -go wrote on Mar 25, 2008 7:33 AM:I want to see real enforcement. I want illegals not to feel comfortable here anymore. I am tired of sending my kids to school, so they can be alienated by all spanish speaking kids. My children are being left behind. I am tired illegal alien supporter stomping on the rights of legal American citizens. There is going to be a tax revolution if some real enforcement doesn't come soon!

funny wrote on Mar 25, 2008 7:36 AM:What's funny is, they say "it doesn't belong at the State level" but whenever cities try to enact their own legislation they are told "it doesn't belong at the City level" LOL! Where does it belong, in the back of all our minds? Come on. We have an illegal immigration problem. To deny it is foolish and will cost us millions.

dave from oceanside wrote on Mar 25, 2008 7:40 AM:Have all your friends contact their representatives by e-mail , fax, or phone and urge them to support these bills. Make it clear to these elected officials that killing these bills will end their political careers.

Support of these following bills Assembly Bill 1882, Assembly Bill 2102, Assembly Bill 1928, Assembly Bill 2420, Assembly Bill 648, and Assembly Bill 2812 are a requirement for your continued employment as my elected representative.

I checked all the Bills listed above and found all but 39.
So I removed it from the above list.

Ron wrote on Mar 25, 2008 7:46 AM:I hear ya... Tribal member @7:21 AM!
That's why I always refer to casino's as "the Indian's revenge." LOL
Enjoy that Mercedes! Compliments of the US Government, Granny, and her Social Security check.

Randy wrote on Mar 25, 2008 7:53 AM:This is nothing more than a publicity stunt. These legislators are unable to balance the state budget. Balancing the state budget is much easier than addressing the illegal immigration issue in a fair and balanced manner.

Becky wrote on Mar 25, 2008 7:55 AM:Trial member, I am here legally because I was born here. Nothing will change with the illegal immigration problem, until we change the the law making every child born here a citizen.
I do love your casinos. Thanks.

Jaimie wrote on Mar 25, 2008 7:56 AM:I live in a small community\park were the only employees are illegal immigrants or the management harboring them.
A good percentage of the residents them selves are of questionable citizenship many are know to be illegal. The obvious discrimination coming from the management. who is married to a women said to be undergoing naturalization. who's adult daughter is here illegally, has been suffered by many. The ongoing incidents of gross misconduct and civil rights violations are far to many to list Now it s gone to the point were people are getting are getting psychically hurt and maimed. The park has been under knew ownership for over 6 months now but nothing has changed only gotten worse. SOMETHING MUST BE DONE! Unfortunately, I think, the rural area and the slightly different mentality possessed by the majority of the residents, is the reason this has gone on so long. it must end ,but I'm not sure were to begin. maybe you can help.

Fed-UP wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:02 AM:J-Sten, this has nothing to do with skin color. I get so stinking fed up whenever someone throws color into the mix. It has everything to do with the American people, LEGAL-Immigrants and our Government being sucked dry of it's recourse by those that are here ILLEGALLY! Whenever a state, county or local governing authority steps up and is willing to do something about it, you get these stinking idiotic rights groups that start screaming discrimination and foul play. How about someone screaming foul play and discrimination to mine as well as every other American's bank account, right to make a living, and having decent medical care????

A good example: I'm a very hard working divorced Mother. I work my hind end off day in and day out to put a roof over our head and food on the table. It's hard, but I do it. I don't quite make enough to qualify for medical through the state. However, I sure as heck cannot afford the outrageous fees for private insurance. We're uninsured! However, I know of illegal's that get the full blown medical care, as well as every other freebie our government has to offer. Who pays for it? Me and everyone else who belongs to this country. Don't even get me started on the crime crap! That's a whole other issue that deserves to be ranted on!Yep, I'm fed up.

build the wall/ deport! wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:02 AM: Women cross the border pregnant or cross then have kids here. Those kids are now LEGAL. It's ALL on our dime. Change that law FIRST! I was born and raised here. As any California native would know, this problem did not happen over night!! "Laws" have not been enforced since the beginning. Now do what Arizone has done- govern on the STATE LEVEL !

Shaky Jake wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:16 AM:Yes by all means blame the undocumented workers for the bad economy in CA. These repugnants are just trying to divert our attention away from the fact that their ways (and the Dems) are a failure. The stats quoted in the article are one sided and unbalanced. They do not account for taxes paid, and the fact that only about 25% of the uncocumented workers in this country are not paying SS taxes, which they do not qualify for. Our economy is being trashed by Wall Street, not the guys on the corner who want to earn an honest dollar. Stop buying into the fear.

Why? wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:23 AM:Why would anyone waste time attempting to institiute new laws when the fine folks (i.e. - judges) at the Federal level of government are prepared to just tell the states to "pound sand" and rule that they are unconstitutional? Face it, until the voters place people in offices of power that are willing to make change.

Concerned-1 wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:25 AM:I don't care if this is a publicity stunt or not, it is time we stopped giving the state away. I will do everying I can personally do to support these measures.

Maria Arg..... wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:26 AM:Finally some Assembly Bills that make sense. The State of California is getting out of control. Hopefully these bills will get through and become law.

C'mon! wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:33 AM:Listen people...

Instead of venting about the topic HERE, let your voice be heard.

http://legplcms01.lc.ca.gov/PublicLCMS/ContactPopup.aspx?district=AD73

http://legplcms01.lc.ca.gov/PublicLCMS/ContactPopup.aspx?district=AD74

If enough of us write, maybe we can get somewhere with this legislation?

DML wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:36 AM:We need to change the "Angel Baby" laws. If my mother had given birth to me in Mexico I wouldn't have been a Mexican Citizen, because my mother was a citizen of the USA. "Just because a cat has kittens in the oven doesn't make them biscuits!" (unknown).

Rios is a buffoon!! wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:37 AM:IF it causes tension and division in the ILLEGAL alien communities, then the bills are doing the job!!! Since states are required to educate, medicate, ajudicate and incarcerate ILLEGALS on their dime with little or NO reimbursement from the Feds, it IS a state issue. CA is being desecrated by the influx of ILLEGALS and everyone knows it. Time to step up to the plate and DENY benefits to ANY non citizen or their children, like they are now doing in AZ. I fully support Garrick and Walters, who ARE working for their constituents. IMAGINE that!!!

steve wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:38 AM:Only 3 million illegals in California? No wonder no one trusts the media & press anymore.

M wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:41 AM:People who work here in California, who are not citizens, pay taxes directly from the wages as well as on every product they purchase. These illegal immigrants contribute to the social security as much as you do, the difference is that when they are no longer able to work in deemining back-breaking labor they won't have any any retirement benefits. Don't forget that these are human beings, not here for political reasons, but in pursuit of life and liberty. Immigrants who are here illegally are not a burden on tax payers, these statements are birthed from ignorance.

Rezqewr wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:42 AM:Just post an I.C.E. official outside every school, hospital, and street-corner 'hiring centre'. Watch how quickly the illegal aliens disappear.
Take away the incentive to come here, and the problem will go away.

Grandstanding wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:42 AM:I support all of these measures in principle but the truth is, it's only political grandstanding. The Supreme Court has already ruled on this and it wont fly. What might work is if states who are most affected by illegal immigration (California, Texas, Florida, New York, Arizona) joined forces and used their political clout to enact change at the Federal level.

Hey Jake? wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:47 AM:Where do you get that 25% pay FICA? I beg to differ. Most do not earn enough from slave wages they are paid to pay anything in FICA. The vast majority are paid cash or IF an employer wants to cover up hiring illegals, they accept fake ID's and 1099 their employees. NO one pays taxes. The ONLY people who benefit from illegal laborers are the unscrupulous employers who hire them. In ALL instances the tax payers are harmed, however. Until you and other illegal alien supporters put your money where you mouth is, please refrain from demanding that your fellow Californians support illegals. Thanks;-)

Jimbo wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:56 AM:These would be common sense laws that would help stem the tide. However, the only thing that will stop these people from coming in is building a concrete wall with razor wire on top of it, and have a division of Army troops patrolling, seriously, along the border. I have often thought that training our troops along the border, and all along it, would go along way to discourage people from coming in. It is sovereign territory, this United States of America.

To M wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:57 AM:You are woefully incorrect!! They don't pay taxes, they don't file returns, the employers don't pay or with hold taxes or provide any kind of Workman's comp insurance on their illegal employees. Why should they? The stupid tax payer can foot the bill for that, to the tune of BILLIONS a year. Regarding retirement? I think the BILLIONS illegals send "home" annually more than covers their retirement. Americans have woken up to the travesty being perpetrated on them by ILLEGAL aliens and aren't going to stand for it any longer. The gravy train is halting all over the US, hopefully CA is next.

sick of it wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:57 AM:American's wake up!!! Illegals clog your court systems, schools, highways, hospitals etc. They carry wads of cash and are able to buy more luxury items than you (check out who has the latest hot cell phones at the mall and who drives the newest cars with expensive trims). While we are all struggling to pay our mortgages and bills, these people keep having more and more babies 'free of charge' at hospitals....they don't have to learn English because they demand interpreters and all sorts of services AND receive them....notice that on most household products it is now in English AND Spanish....why should they assimulate...they don't have to...and won't.

WRITE your legislators wrote on Mar 25, 2008 9:04 AM:and tell them you support these new laws. Join CAPS and NumbersUSA and support them. The only way to beat back the illegal immigration mess is to FIGHT!!!!

self determination wrote on Mar 25, 2008 9:09 AM:Anybody who considers another human "illegal" or to be "loitering" is ignoring the truth of the matter. These people are not here to hang out like teenagers behind a grocery store. They are here because they have no other options. The situation has to get pretty desperate before anybody will risk their lives by crossing the desert only to live somewhere they know they will have to hide out and live meagerly, and it all stems back to things like NAFTA and outsourcing of labor. You're only passing the buck by putting up walls or deporting people in need.

It's time to take responsibility for our privilege as U.S. citizens by making informed decisions as consumers and citizens. Stop destroying other cultures and opportunities with globalization and people will be free to live their lives in their own country the way they would prefer to. In short: if you voted for either Democrats or Republicans and buy any product that is not union made or Fair Trade you are to blame.

Reardon wrote on Mar 25, 2008 9:10 AM:To M: Please help solve the problem the rest of us perceive -- ADOPT an illegal family. Pay directly for their $10,000/child/year costs (the schools are permitted to accept money); place the family on YOUR medical insurance; keep the children from joining gangs; drive them wherever they must go so they do not drive without licenses and insurance...be a good citizen and show us how compassionate you are both to the illegals, and to the remainder of the legal citizens by taking the financial burden off the taxpayer's back.

To Shaky Jake wrote on Mar 25, 2008 9:11 AM:C'mon Jake, you know it was illegals who were buying up all those houses that are now being foreclosed, with their subprime loans. It was probably illegals in the mortgage industry giving subprime loans to anyone with a pulse, too. All so they could undermine the economy of the country they busted their asses to get into.
Scapegoating is a wonderful thing, ain't it?

Mike wrote on Mar 25, 2008 9:23 AM:JSten, at 6:46 AM, quips: "This is just a way for the white folks to diss the brown folks, most of whom are here legally and who probably date back before us in ancestry."

I'm not saying this is untrue, or laughably ignorant. I'm still trying to imagine what "date back before us in ancestry" could mean?

Zeb wrote on Mar 25, 2008 9:29 AM:Only 3 million illegals in California? That's a way low figure listed by the press. Sort of like the Feds saying there are 12 million illegals in the entire country. Yeah, right. Here's some more reliable numbers: CAPS (Californian's for Population Stabilization) released a study in the 4th quarter of 2007 that stated there are 20 to 38 million illegals in America. A very conservative estimate is that California has 25% of the illegals in the U.S. (it could be as high as 50%). So, taking the most conservative numbers, there are at least 5 million illegal aliens in California (with possibly as many as 19 million).

Dianne wrote on Mar 25, 2008 9:31 AM:The state's budget deficit is $16 billion. The state's cost for illegal aliens is $10.5 billion....DUH! Illegals can get free medical. If my insurance doesn't cover 100% of, let's say, cancer treatment (i.e. chemo, radiation, etcetera), I can't get the treatments because I'm a social security recipient. Result..death. Illegals get this treatment for free. Is our world upside down?

Tribal member wrote on Mar 25, 2008 9:31 AM:To Becky at 7:55: Native Americans don't recognize your constitution, much less your 14th Amendment, so the fact you were born here has no bearing on your legal status as far as we are concerned. We demand you round yourselves up and ship yourselves back to the countries from which you came! Oh, yeah, put the buffalo back while you're at it.

To Bad wrote on Mar 25, 2008 9:34 AM:the Majority, Democrats, won't go along with these bills. They see the illegals as their voting block. We need the NCT to publish how each member of the legislature votes on these. Name, area represented and how they voted. To the neysayers, all you have to do is look at Arizona to see the laws are working and taxpayers are starting to feel the difference already. I don't know why it is so difficult to understand that those that don't pay into the system yet take from it causes economic problems for all. It is obvious those that favor the illegal immigrants behavior don't understand economics including politicians. It is understandable in the Activists case as they are looking for a free ride through life also. We need these laws and need to make sure they are enforced. Write your Representative now!

Ken wrote on Mar 25, 2008 9:37 AM:I want each and every law that has to do with immigration to be enforced! Why isn't it being done? I am not against LEGAL immigration, but rather the ILLEGAL immigration. The ILLEGAL ALIENS are INVADING our great country and we need to put a stop to it RIGHT NOW! STOP BENEFITS that are going to the ILLEGAL ALIENS and use that money to help those that are here LEGALLY. Escondido truly needs to enforce each and every immigration law and stop saying that the federal government needs to do it. There is much that our local governments can do and should do to help stop this injustice to the LEGAL citizens in our fine country.

Bob wrote on Mar 25, 2008 9:40 AM:I am sick and tired of those who do not understand the term "Illegal". Those who flagrantly violate our laws and disrespect the sovereignty of this wonderful country, are "Illegal". Their motives are defensible and honorable...but they need to become citizens through the proper channels, not by jumping a fence or digging under one. It is not a race issue. It is purely a legal issue, an economic issue, and one that is changing the very culture that has made this country great in the past.

Jose wrote on Mar 25, 2008 9:51 AM:It sounds good but the democrats wiil not let it go through. You know I'm ready to be part of a huge march like the ones that are formed by pro-illegal groups. When are pro-legal organizations gonna mobilze some serious action. I think to many of us are afraid of being called racist. Blogging is safe.

Tomas wrote on Mar 25, 2008 9:51 AM:More racists laws being proposed by more racists politicins! That's the problem with the USA - it's ran by rich white people. Barack Obama and his preecher knows this! When Barack is president he will throw away all racists laws likes these and finally give amnesty to all the hard working migrants who deserves it so much.

sdraoul wrote on Mar 25, 2008 10:03 AM:The person who said that if they were born of an American mother in Mexico that they wouldn't be a Mexican citizen is wrong, as are almost every single one of the posters here who revel in these proposals by Garrick and Mimi.

None of these proposals has a chance of passing. These two Assembly people are wasting out tax dollars and adding to the deficit.

To M wrote on Mar 25, 2008 10:06 AM:They pay social security and taxes? Your kidding right. Have you ever heard of the term "under the table". Maybe thewy pay taxes using my social security number. And for sales taxes, so does every tourist. Are we going to give them drivers licenses, in state tuition, welfare, food stamps, a free k-12 education? Get real!

To Tribal Member wrote on Mar 25, 2008 10:11 AM:Can I join your drum circle? I'll let you use my time machine. Unlike Uncle Rico's, it actually works. You can go back in time and stop Manifest Destiny. I'm sure if your tribe only had you as a leader, the onslaught would have been thwarted.

A Novel Idea wrote on Mar 25, 2008 10:38 AM:We should approach this issue with ingenuity -- why not enlist and train the hispanic Diaspora here as freedom fighters and assist them in taking their countries back from the drug lords and oligarchs -- heck, we have done the same in many other countries, why not in our own back yard?

Not racist, huh? wrote on Mar 25, 2008 10:58 AM:All those who claim there is nothing racist about these laws (or these posts) just take a look at "sick of it" at 8:57. If it's not racist why so many complaints about illegals speaking Spanish? Do a lot of Canadian, Asian or European illegal immigrants speak Spanish, too? And look at his assumption that all those people with the "hot cell phones" and "expensive cars" are illegal, just because presumably they speak Spanish or look Hispanic? Certainly there's no way anyone of Mexican ancestry could be here LEGALLY, or hold a decent-paying job, right Sick Of It?

Bill wrote on Mar 25, 2008 11:00 AM:They should pass a law for general contractors to have their licensed suspended for a year and a reward for the person who tips off the authorities for using day laborers instead of licensed and bonded subcontractors. Look near any home improvement store in the morning and see scores of day laborers wanting to work for a hundred dollars a day. Right now the fine is like a traffic ticket.

Steve wrote on Mar 25, 2008 11:21 AM:We need to get all of those wild eyed radicals who run the hotels, restaurants, construction companies, meat packing plants etc. to obey the laws and not hire the illegals. Oh... that's right they are Republicans so forget it. It is more important in this country to allow these people to make their money at the expense of the American people and our economy. Do you really think that these people will give up their excess profits? If so there is a bridge for sale in the Arizona desert you might be interested in.

Junior wrote on Mar 25, 2008 11:22 AM:Deport all the white people to Siberia and we will finally be at peace.

Jimbo wrote on Mar 25, 2008 11:26 AM:To whom it may concern, and especially to those people who think California belongs to Mexico. I am 1/64 th Indian. The indian spirits within me tell me to follow the law, and that by doing so, we honor the memories of our ancestors.

What wrote on Mar 25, 2008 11:27 AM:To "Tribal Memeber" I sympathize with your people and the struggles your people have gone through since the Europeans came to North America and I respect that you did not want to be assimilated into American culture but has there ever been any proof that your people where here from the beginning of time or did they come here from another continent and just lucked out that there were not any indigenous peoples that they would have had to conquer.Pleae do not get me wrong, I am not trying to start a fight I am merely pointing out that nobody truley had claim to this land and the Europeans where the last to get here and were armed enough to control and keep it.

America wrote on Mar 25, 2008 11:38 AM:Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed, to me:
I lift my lamp beside the golden door.

Unfunded mandates wrote on Mar 25, 2008 11:40 AM:Immigration is a federal issue. The state is bankrupted, and now they want our cities to bear additional costs of being federal officers? I'd applaud this if in fact it was a real solution, but it is not. I expect more from both our Republican and Democratic legislators. I expect them to pressure the feds in coming up with a solution and FUNDING IT. This is just an attempt to get votes in November. Is Immigration a wedge issue? Yes. Does anyone ever wins when accusations are passed back and forth? No.

dave from oceanside wrote on Mar 25, 2008 11:42 AM:To: "WRITE your legislators"
Thanks, NumbersUSA web site has a list and grading on representatives voting concerning Immigration issues.

Tribal Member wrote on Mar 25, 2008 11:48 AM:To "To tribal Member" at 10:11: Congratulations, you have picked up on the lunacy of assuming that one can turn back time. You can be an honorary nonvoting member until we do a DNA test to see if you are at least one-fourth Native American (in reality, very few of us "natives" are much more than that anymore, despite what certain tribal leaders would have you believe). Now if only those who think it's even remotely possible to round up 20 million people and deport them would also pick up on this, maybe we could begin to come up with some RATIONAL ideas for controlling and dealing with illegal immigration. Welcome to my drum circle.

esteban wrote on Mar 25, 2008 11:51 AM:I predict these will pass with flying colors. The Americans against illegal immigration are in the majority.

Reardon wrote on Mar 25, 2008 12:06 PM:To Huh? In California we have mostly, but not exclusively Latino illegals. In Mid-California, we have Chinese and other Asian illegals. In Florida we have Haitian illegals, in New York we have Russian illegals, in Buffalo we have Canadian illegals, and in Boston we have Irish illegals. The majority of ALL illegals are Mexican, simply because we have a common border. In San Diego, the problem we have with illegals is with Latino illegals, mostly Mexican because of proximity, and it is NOT racist to say so. It is FACTUAL.

Reardon wrote on Mar 25, 2008 12:18 PM:Perhaps someone can enlighten me -- I understand that immigration is a "federal issue." The claim is made that local enforcement should not get involved with something that is exclusively a federal issue. Does that mean that a deserter from the Armed Forces, strictly a federal offense for which there is no local or state statute involved, who is caught in a traffic stop will not be turned over to federal authorities?

NCT's is not printing wrote on Mar 25, 2008 12:39 PM:comments AGAIN. I wonder why when someone tells people who to get involved with to stop ILLEGAL immigration their comments are not printed???

to Reardon, from 'Huh?' wrote on Mar 25, 2008 12:49 PM:There's nothing wrong with noting that the great majority of illegal immigrants in this part of the world are Latino, and I acknowledge it's true. But Sick Of It and far too many other posters on these articles make it clear they oppose illegal immigration BECAUSE they are Latinos. They say otherwise, but look at what they object to: Too many people speaking Spanish; Hispanics with more toys than they have and "pockets full of cash". And they assume that every Hispanic they see is here illegally. That's racist.

For others who see it as a matter of principle or a purely economic concern, I can at least respect their/your position, even if I do think you're being incredibly short-sighted. (People scream bloody murder when the price of gas goes up 50 cents a gallon. How loud do you think they'd scream when the cost of food doubled overnight because the bulk of the farm labor was deported?) Everyone says it would be a good tradeoff, because we would no longer have to absorb the cost of health care, education or incarceration of the criminal aliens, but those are indirect costs. The cost of goods and services now provided by illegal immigrants -- including food harvesting -- would skyrocket almost immediately if they were successful. And you think government is going to give those tax dollars back?

Chrissss wrote on Mar 25, 2008 1:01 PM:Rios said: "It only creates more division and tension."--------This always kills me when groups use the word "division." Does it EVER occur to them that by naming their organizations or groups in Spanish that they are the ones creating divisiveness from the git-go? Think about it.

Concerned-1 wrote on Mar 25, 2008 1:10 PM:As for the illegal farm workers leaving us without food when they leave, bull! I don't want them handling my food anyway. I'm growing my own vegetables and encourage everyone to start a garden.

Chrisss wrote on Mar 25, 2008 1:25 PM:Oh, gee, M, I loved your comment..."Immigrants who are here illegally are not a burden on tax payers, these statements are birthed from ignorance..."-----Yes, we who have been doing our taxes every April for over 40 years are just so ignorant; thank you for enlightening we ignoramuses (who pay over $23,000 in Fed and State ALONE every year!) as to how income tax is paid. Do ya REALLY think that these "poor human beings who just wanna feed their families"---off America's generosity---are paying the kind of taxes we are?! How is that possible when they are supposedly being paid minimum wage, have 6 dependents, then claim EIC? Anyone, Bueller, anyone? And this alleged amount they pay in pays for the expense of childbirth and schooling???????? Uh, no.

Alyssa wrote on Mar 25, 2008 1:37 PM:these laws are NOT racist at all. WE DO allows people to come to the United States LEGALLY no problem. Illegal is a different story. If we were racists we wouldn't allows anyone in. Illegal immigration Costs SO much. Why not just do it correctly and be legally here? Is it too much to ask? obviously! We have to work and pay for health insurance here. They need to do the same if they are going to be here they need to work and pay like everyone else. Not too much to ask to get a job. Not racist.

dilemma wrote on Mar 25, 2008 1:46 PM:Lets see here, the republicans are trying to fix a problem and the democrats are trying to get in the way. I wonder who I should vote for. What a dilemma!

Migrating Again wrote on Mar 25, 2008 2:01 PM:In my neighborhood, the migrants boarding in single family homes have been leaving since housing construction has slowed. These once crowded houses now are empty and being sold at firesale prices. The families buying these homes are getting great deals after putting in some tender loving care that was lacking by the former residents.

To HUH? From Bobby wrote on Mar 25, 2008 2:03 PM:I'd gladly pay an extra $1.10 for lettuce knowing it was picked by a taxpaying american citizen

Nancy wrote on Mar 25, 2008 2:03 PM:To "to Reardon, from 'Huh?'"

How many of the illegals in our country do you actually think are farm workers?It is a very small minority.

Even the vast majority of illegals that live in the canyons around my home near a tomato farm aren't actually farm workers! They are day laborers who stand on our corners looking to get daily work and are paid under the table. I see them walk out of the canyon near my home every day and stand on our street corner. (Just what every parent wants- transient men hanging out in our neighborhood)

We have H2A visas for farm workers to come legally and of course our farms can automate to lessen the need for workers.

Ed Weirdness wrote on Mar 25, 2008 2:05 PM:These legslators are to be commended for their courage in confronting this issue. Overpopulation, congestion, urban sprawl, crime, pollution, crumbling infrastructure, overcrowded schools and emergency rooms, lack of affordable housing, depressed wages, increased tax burdens, diminishing resources, vanishing farm land and green space, the balkanization of our communities, the overall decline in quality of life are all the result of unconstrained immigration. Too many people chasing few resources. Indeed, virtually every industrialized country, even China, has taken steps to end illegal immigration, and to curtail legal immigration to only that which is prudent, demonstrably necessary, and above all other concerns, in the best interests of their native population. Its dangerously misguided to suggest that America cannot or should not do likewise!

KCGuy wrote on Mar 25, 2008 2:16 PM:Dear Tribal member,
The relationship between Europeans and your tribes is more complex than you make it. The Mayans welcomed the Spanish. There were multiple Indian nations, many at war with each other and happy to have us pale-faces as accomplices. Perhaps you could go tribe by tribe and illustrate which statutes and ordinances they had that were violated by Europeans, as to say that Europeans were always illegal aliens or even unwelcome is factually untrue.

Bettybb wrote on Mar 25, 2008 2:18 PM:To Chriss...

The division and tension is between people who believe in the rule of law and equal treatment for all.. and those who don't.

Bring on the division and tension!

That is a battle worth figthing.

Not scared wrote on Mar 25, 2008 2:20 PM:To those who try to scare the public with your statements that food prices would "skyrocket" or we would be paying $5 for a head of lettuce if it weren't for illegals, I say BS. There are many fixed costs associated with farming and getting food to consumers. The land itself, the water, the tractors, the trucking to the markets, the market costs, the checkers and so on would be the same. The difference would be in the wages to the pickers. The cost for this portion would go up due to having to pay an honest wage, but total cost to the consumer would not "skyrocket". I would gladly pay a little more if I didn't have to pay the enormous costs of social services to people who should not even be in this country. And to M who says "Don't forget that these are human beings.........". I say, tell that to the Mexican government.

Bettybb wrote on Mar 25, 2008 2:24 PM:America has always, as long as they are LEGAL immigrants taken the position:

Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed, to me:
I lift my lamp

Bettybb wrote on Mar 25, 2008 2:31 PM:So North Country Times censors pro rule of law comments..

I do not see any of my numerous commnets being posted, and many of which are almost idential to comments of mine which have been posted on hundreds of other sites, about half of which, at least, are pro illegal immigration.

Not good for free speech in Ameria.

But that is what happens when you start accept massive lawbreaking, and giving preferential treatment to one group, and ignoring the USA constitutions anti discrimination clause, and equal protection clause.

We are going to be a third world country in no time if this keeps up. Actually some other countries have estimated that the USA will decend to that level within 30 years if we do not enforce our immigration laws.

Bet this does not get posted either.

Facts are really disturbing when you are are desparately trying to get people to accept dispictable ideas, like amnesty for serial lawbreaking illegal immigrants.

Reardon wrote on Mar 25, 2008 2:35 PM:My plan institutes a "carrot" to entice those families to self-deport, and a stick if they do not. (All at no cost to the taxpayers.)


1) Secure the Border,

2) Deport ALL CONVICTED CRIMINAL illegal alien.

3) Double (or even TRIPLE) LEGAL immigration from all Latin countries.

4) Institute a Worker program with all current illegal alien WORKERS IN SPECIFIC LABOR CATEGORIES eligible for a 10-year Green Card (renewable in 5 year increments on good behavior) -- IF they agree to have their non-American citizen family-members move back immediately to their home country. (Violators to lose their Green Card status).

5) Institute a CONTROLLED Guest Worker program of new workers, based on 2 year, unaccompanied tours, (renewable 3 times on good behavior).

This proposal would blunt claims of racism, decrease immeasurably the social cost drain on the taxpayer, and provide a large source for low-cost labor while keeping the remittances to Latin countries generally untouched.

This is a win-win situation in which there is an incentive for self-deportation of the drain on taxpayers worker's families), while keeping the benefit(s) of labor

Proposals wrote on Mar 25, 2008 2:42 PM:Don't Go Far Enough! Stop illegals, whatever race, color or creed from receiving any state or federal government benefits, be it education, welfare, social security, etc. and ship them back where they came from. Go back & fix your own countries instead of bankrupting ours. And, if our elected reps don't support the will of the people - vote 'em out of office. Let's exercise OUR rights as citizens at the polling place!

Edweirdness wrote on Mar 25, 2008 2:49 PM:All the "fear mongering" about skyrocketing prices for food is nonsense. The cost of food has never gone down or remained stable as the result of hiring illegal immigrants. Best guess estimates are that illegal aliens make up only 5% or our workforce (not all of the 12 to 20 millions illegals are working jobs)or 1 in 20 workers. We've probably experienced the exact same effect with the recent economic downturn and lay-offs of recent months. Further, labor actually only constitutes 5% to 7% of the costs of food production, and illegal aliens only represent a very narrow slice of the overall costs of food. Recent prices increases in food are the result of increased fuel and distribution costs and have nothing to do with labor costs. Also, the skyrocketing price of corn that can be Further, America exports more food that it imports, or for that matter we export more food than we consume. One need look no farther than the dumpster behind any super market, school, hospital, military base, etc,,, to realize that we through away more produce than we consume. The fact that American's are the most obese people on the planet (Mexico is now #2 in terms of obesity) also makes any arguments about "run away food prices" speculative at best.

Nick wrote on Mar 25, 2008 2:53 PM:I can't believe how many ignorant people keep using the inscription on the Statue of Liberty to justify ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION. You people need to go back to history class. The Statue of Liberty has NOTHING TO DO WITH IMMIGRATION.
Discussions in France over a suitable gift to the United States to mark the Centennial of the American Declaration of Independence were headed by the politician and sympathetic writer of the history of the United States, Édouard René de Laboulaye. French sculptor Frédéric Bartholdi was commissioned to design a sculpture with the year 1876 in mind for completion. The idea for the commemorative gift then grew out of the political turmoil which was shaking France at the time. The French Third Republic was still considered as a "temporary" arrangement by many, who wished a return to monarchism, or to some form of representation of republican virtues to a "sister" republic across the sea served as a focus for the republican cause against other politicians.
The Statue of Liberty is a sham!

Susie wrote on Mar 25, 2008 3:07 PM:One way to make sure that the illegal immigration assembely bills get passed is for us the taxpayers/Citizens, fax,write and/or call your house/senate representive and tell them you want these bills passed and that it is about time that they represented the American Citizens that they were elected to and not their special interest groups who they receive money from. We do have the power to vote every single one of them who will not represent us out of office and that is what we need to do! Let them know how you feel, they have the lowest polls and respect of the American Citizens and you need to speak up and let them know how badly they are doing their jobs.

The Movement wrote on Mar 25, 2008 3:08 PM:This is it folks. The movement begins. Yes, we will vote to stop supporting illegals. Yes we will vote to stop hiring illegals. Yes, we will allow them to self deport by not renting, selling or otherwise accommodating illegal aliens!

Brian wrote on Mar 25, 2008 3:29 PM:To Nick- you are correct. The Statue of Liberty arrived without a base. Emma Lazarus was a wealthy New Yorker who raised the money to build the base (it wasn't yet a National Park). In exchange for building the base, she mandated that it contain her ridiculous poem "The American Colossus". Amazingly, people have been led to believe this is our governemnt's immigration policy.

Jim wrote on Mar 25, 2008 3:43 PM:"An immigrant rights advocate called the bills divisive." Yeah, it's divisive, all right. It divides people up into two groups - one group that wants to obey the law and one group that doesn't.

Get Over It! wrote on Mar 25, 2008 4:18 PM:What a bunch of silly buffoons you all are. We're on the brink of an economic disaster, we're fighting a war we can't hope to win, and these Assembly clowns float a bill that has no chnace of passing. Well, at least they seem to be going with the trend! Until the feds get serious about this issue, nothing will happen. Personaly, I don't want to live in Arizona, and I don't want California to be like Arizona. I'm an open borders kinda guy. The fastest way to turn this around is to allow US citizens and capital free access to Mexico and Mexican markets, and boy oh boy, all these "illegals" are going to want to stay in Mexico! Funny thing is they'll still be working for us (in the short term). Eventually, they'll have their own businesses, their middle class will grow, and both will acheive a more balanced economy. Now, this idea won;t work if somehow you're opposed the brown skin, but if you're truly color blind, this is the ticket!!

Reardon wrote on Mar 25, 2008 4:33 PM:Hey, Get Over it! Can you tell us "buffoons" where you get whatever you are smoking? (Is it just possible to hold an opinion counter to yours without being called names?)

Don't blame the immigrants wrote on Mar 25, 2008 4:36 PM:I am not mad at the illegal immigrants. They are just coming here for the same reasons our ancestors did. To make a better life for our families.
I am disappointed in our government's lame policies. I don't think we should be handing out welfare checks and food stamps to folks who cannot take the time to go through the legal process. I also am disappointed in the immigrants that send millions of dollars back to mexico. I realize that the folks back home depend on that money but I also think it is fair to ask that some of the money stay in the community it is earned in to help pay for schools and healthcare.
I also think that the businesses that use illegal labor are like the union busters that used scab labor to undercut living wages. Why should a business pay health care insurance or any other benefits when there is some else who will do the same job for less money. Of course the businesses get rich and the taxpayers get stuck with the bill. It does not seem fair to me.

dave from oceanside wrote on Mar 25, 2008 4:49 PM:Mr "Get over it" is calling us all racist clowns because we want illegal's off of the tax payers back and out of our country.
This is not a joking matter.
Letting people into this country who have no intention of assimilating will only lead to a fractured society.
This is just like a team having a teammate who's loyalty is to the opposing team.

Names!?! wrote on Mar 25, 2008 4:57 PM:Actually, it is practically impossible to hold an opinion contrary to mine without having me resort to calling anyone a name. Look, I listen to talk radio constantly, and all they do is call people names, so I guess it's OK, right? Besides, I like the word "buffoon". It's fun to say. I like "clown", too. It reminds me of a Keystone Cops movie. As for what I'm smoking, sorry - I only smoke when I'm on fire. Now, if I can only lern how to spell.....

What wrote on Mar 25, 2008 5:20 PM:I understand that they send some of their money back to Mexico through wire transfers - would it be possible to place a tax on that?

Jim wrote on Mar 25, 2008 5:49 PM:Get Over It/Names!?!: Free enterprise with Mexico?! One of their sheriffs just came across the border yesterday begging for protection. Who in their right mind would want to do business with that corrupt country? You ARE smoking something and that must be the business you're talking about.

dave from oceanside wrote on Mar 25, 2008 5:56 PM:Mr "Get over it" Add critical thought to the list of things for you to improve.

Some progress wrote on Mar 25, 2008 6:28 PM:Hey, we're making some progress with these stories. Even Sifuentes is using the word ILLEGAL now! Thanks Edward! I think the majority of bloggers to these stories who have had to constantly point out the difference between legal and illegal are to be congratulated. We are making a difference. And another thing. The article contain no quotes from the normal group of illegal supporters, such as Tina J, Bill F, Raoul C, etal. Only the ones with no logical argument who resort to name calling remain. This is indeed progress!

Tom wrote on Mar 25, 2008 6:36 PM:I cannot believe that we can't get something done on this issue. But as soon as these bills hit the assembly they are dead. That is why most of them are getting kicked out of their seats. They don't do anything up there but pass lousy bills and spend taxpayer money. They sure as heck don't listen to the will of the people. Maybe just maybe after Nunez and his buddies are gone, we can clean up California!

Roberto1 wrote on Mar 25, 2008 7:09 PM:Get rid of the last workers...lets hurry up and bottom out.

Ron wrote on Mar 25, 2008 7:32 PM:It is about time these bills were introduced. Now all we need to do is bring home our troops from Iraq and put them along our southern border to defend against the real enemy of our country. Not only will that defend us from the illegal invasion from Central America it will free up Border Patrol and ICE to round up and deport the millions of illegal aliens already in our country. By the way Tribal person you should just be happy that we allowed you to remain after your defeat. It is too bad that our treaties were written so poorly that you were allowed to stay a sovereign nation but I guess that just goes to show that there were liberals and Democrats back then screwing things up too.

WoW! wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:16 PM:Ron is an advocate of genocide?!? Just where were the tribes supposed to go? They were already home! Wow, and I'm accused of using such terrible names as buffon and clown - put me in my place, eh? As for critical thought, get a grip. My idea has the same chance of succeeding as these bills and your lousy ideas - NONE! This issue is soooooo complicated and requires buy-in from soooo many diverse groups and interests but no one wants to SERIOUSLY address it. Close the borders - stop benefits - arrest employers - blah, blah, blah. Face it, this country isn't doing very well with wars - Iraq, , Illegal Aliens. What I will say is that once the economy returns, and once we have a more non-partison congress, then a solution may present itself. In the current climate, no way Jose.

Tribal member wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:36 PM:Ron -- My people and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts for allowing us to live on such lush, arable land and allowing us to breathe the same air as you. You are truly a man of great honor.

Reardon -- I got a kick out of your "carrot and stick" plan, especially the first step, "Secure the Border." It remin ded of that old joke about how to become a millionaire. The first step? "First, get a million dollars..." (Of course, for some of us that has proved a little easier than for others. The line should be changed to "First, get the white man to allow you open a casino...")

hmmm wrote on Mar 25, 2008 8:46 PM:"His bill would require police to contact immigration authorities when a person suspected of being an illegal immigrant is arrested for driving under the influence." I thought they would have been doing this the whole time...but that would make too much sense.

Reardon wrote on Mar 25, 2008 9:17 PM:To Tribal Member: I understand. Several decades ago I owned and raced a relatively rare sports car, and at Riverside I had the transmission fail. We ordered a new transmission from the factory in England, and a book on replacement of the transmission. The first instruction was 1) Remove the engine.

If I could remove the engine with just one instruction, I would not need the book on the transmission!

John wrote on Mar 25, 2008 10:15 PM:Seems like every new bill has a price - especially the ones coming out of law makers. Another set of rules and a little less freedom. Has America become a nation of control freaks - or were we always that way?

lynn wrote on Mar 25, 2008 10:28 PM:Long long overdue. With CA having a budget crisis something has to be done and obviously a lot of our problem is illegal immigration gone wild. Free medical, schooling, etc. And from what I've heard the state actually brings in more money than in the past. Now let's see if the legislators have the guts to do what's right for the state or cater to their special interest groups.

EscoWatchDog wrote on Mar 25, 2008 11:21 PM:Down with the racist, reactionary politicos who hate immigrants! Find a solution instead of creating a bigger police state. Our schools are shutting down because these republicans continue to support the war.

Roberto1 wrote on Mar 26, 2008 2:15 AM:Quit blaming illegal workers for the subprime crisis, recession, state budget etc.....if you smelt it, you dealt it.

No duh! wrote on Mar 26, 2008 6:25 AM:With everyone losing their jobs, people will have to go back to work that the illegals are doing now.

To Tribual Member wrote on Mar 26, 2008 6:40 AM:Hey google, welsh white indians. It appears they were here way before Columbus. Now my question is does the white man get to share in the casino profits?

edweirdness wrote on Mar 26, 2008 6:48 AM:Roberto1:
Actually, illegals by their sheer numbers have obviously played some role in the subprime crisis, recession, state budgets, etc,, by virtue of the fact that they are here. Illegal immigrants often receive credit for their minimal contributions to the local communities (usually through sales tax, big whoop there). Overpopulation, congestion, urban sprawl, crime, pollution, crumbling infrastructure, overcrowded schools and emergency rooms, lack of affordable housing, vanishing farmland and green space, diminishing resources, depressed wages, increased tax burdens, the balkanization of our communities, the overall decline in quality of life are all the result of unconstrained immigr