The way to win

The push for a “wall” seems to have many backers who oppose illegal immigration.  But they need to think of the “wall” in broader terms.  A physical wall is only one way, and not necessarily the best way, to stop illegal immigration.

Let’s expand the goal to include both physical and new legal barriers.  The latter are desperately needed.

Van Esser of Numbers USA succinctly outlines several steps that would actually cut down on illegal immigration more effectively than “the wall.” 

… “It’s commonly accepted that around forty percent of illegal immigration is caused by people overstaying their visas. An effective entry-exit system with interior enforcement will solve that problem, not a wall.

“The prospect for jobs induces most illegal border crossings and visa overstays. And the draw increases for those inclined to have a family on U.S. soil since the wrongful interpretation of the 14th Amendment yields public benefits for their kids. Here too, a wall is of limited benefit compared to cutting off the jobs magnet through E-Verify and a legislative clarification of ‘birthright citizenship.’

“For some time now, the prospect for jobs also has induced migrants to game our asylum system. Loopholes in the asylum law, combined with related court rulings, virtually guarantee release for ‘family units’ that present themselves at ports of entry. And if the numbers remain high, others must be released due to limited detention space. A wall can’t fix this problem because most are using ‘doors.’ … “ 

Van Esser calls for a change in campaign strategy:

“The battle we face is one to protect American lives and livelihoods, our quality of life, the National Treasure and, ultimately, our sovereignty. In a sense, it’s a modern-day equivalent of the founding fathers protecting our unalienable rights of ‘Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.’ They fought for our independence and it’s time we defend ours. We need to wall ourselves off from illegal border crossers, visa overstayers and asylum gamers.”

That means a wall of effective, well-enforced immigration controls not limited to a physical structure.  Chiefly we need:  mandatory E-Verify, an end to birthright citizenship, closing of loopholes in the asylum and refugee rules.  Also, with modern electronic technology, we can now set up the much-needed, effective entry-exit system that will screen travelers coming in by air and sea, as well as those crossing land borders, and ensure that they depart on schedule.