Obama and McCain Speak to Latinos on Immigration

As we reported earlier, both Senators, Obama and McCain spoke to the League of United Latin American Citizens Convention today. I located the text of their speeches and have provided a link for your convenience. Obama Speech - McCain Speech

Immigration policy was discussed by both candidates. Remember, it was McCain who supported an earlier immigration bill that failed passage - it would have provided amnesty and a pathway to citizenship for those here illegally. McCain has since tried to distance himself from his position as the Republican Right opposed it.

Both candidates voted for the border fence when in reality, it does very little to dissuade illegal entry into the U.S. Immigration is a sensitive issue as it involves an estimated 11-12 million undocumented workers in the U.S. today. Obviously, a huge underground economy is in operation across the country as undocumented workers receive payment for work without taxation. It would seem a reasonable pathway to citizenship would make sense.

As to the billion dollar border fence with Mexico, it appears Americans are divided as to whether this is a good idea. Read more here. A border fence always conjures up the image of the Berlin Wall and the Great Wall of China, neither one of which withstood the test of time. However, a secure border with increased border patrols and electronic surveillance does make sense.

The economy, the war in Iraq, rising energy costs, and affordable health care are currently the top issues to voters. Look to see immigration policy of the candidates receive scrutiny as well.