mangrumsNet

In this case he is speaking of immigration, but I wonder if there is something more behind that statement.  It is hard to argue with that either, since it is true.  There are large numbers of Americans who have come here legally, obtained citizenship, and integrated.  The problem with the what he said, however, is that there are large numbers of illegals who have no desire to become Americans.  They are here to take advantage of the work, medical, and social programs while wanting to remain native to the country they voluntarily left.  They want all of the benefits with none of the drawbacks.

The New York Post in this article says

Speaking at the American University School of International Service in Washington D.C., Obama expressed an understanding for why states would pass individual anti-illegal immigration laws, but said taking such action is “ill conceived.”

The president said laws, such as the one signed by Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer in April, are "divisive," put pressure on local law enforcement, burden state and local budgets and could potentially violate the rights of innocent American citizens and legal residents.

What is interesting about that is that the Arizona law basically just allows the state to enforce laws already in place at the federal level.  If those laws were just allowed to be enforced, AZ would never have had to pass their own.  As it stands, however, is that our Border Patrol Agents have their hands tied and face litigation if they do happen to do what they are paid for.  The Post goes on to say

Obama said Thursday that while America has always defined itself as a nation of immigrants, and while the "overwhelming majority" of illegal immigrants come to the U.S. in search of a better life, "The presence of so many illegal immigrants makes a mockery of all those who are going through the process of immigration legally."

"Ultimately, our nation, like all nations, has the right and obligation to control its borders and set laws for residency and citizenship," he said. "And no matter how decent they are, no matter their reasons, the 11 million who broke these laws should be held accountable."

The president called for a "pathway to legal status that is fair, reflective of our values and works," a process he said has been "held hostage by political posturing and special interest wrangling."

Translation: "We'll get to border security as soon as we figure out a way to legallize all those who are here already."

My friends from Argentina, who are now here as citizens, voluntarily left the country when their original papers were expiring.  They waited until new ones were processed and then re-entered the country.  That is a pathway to legal status that is fair, reflective of our values and works.

Meanwhile, back at the ranch, the Texas AG has sent a letter to the White House demanding that they do what they are supposed to do to control the border.  In part, it says

The time for talk has passed. The time for action is now. The need is urgent. Each day that passes increases the likelihood that an American life will be lost because of the federal government’s failure to secure the border.

I happen to agree.