re: #15 Uncle Obdicut

“Literally infinite. One is, indeed, frequent amnesty for those who are well-integrated into US society.

If we have borders that are essentially borderless, which can be crossed without restriction, then your “borders wide open” is in fact a reality rather than an extreme option.

But this isn’t the case. We don’t have borders that are essentially borderless or that can be crossed without restriction. Nor could we ever, even if we tried.

Where exactly will you draw the line, assuming you have the will to do so?

I have no idea what you mean by ‘will’, but I think a combination of the current lottery system, DREAM act stuff for children who grow up here ‘illegally’, and military and civilian service. Civilian service would go a great ways towards integration, too.”

Your last paragraph shows the flaw in your thinking. Great in concept, but no different that what’s happening at present - anyone who wants to come to the USA illegally will try to cross the border. And Ms Arellano will try to help and support them in their journey through Mexico. Unfortunately those crossing the borders are not just the Javier types you mentioned above, but include cartel and gang members and other not-so-nice types who prefer not to put in 8-5 hour days at minimum wage.

Until we (I didn’t mean to pick on you specifically) have the will to really put great effort in minimizing, let alone stopping, illegal border crossings, then any movement towards immigration reform will be just feel good window dressing.

Your comment on the need for frequent amnesty simply confirms the never ending dilemma this country will have as long as border enforcement remains lackadaisical or minimalist.

Of course, the alternative is simply open borders - let everyone into the land of plenty.