Web Posted: 11/27/2008 12:00 CST

Bad economy, naturally, slows immigrants

Carlos Guerra - Carlos Guerra

Today, fewer immigrants will be enjoying turkey.

In a study just released by the Center for Immigration Studies, Steven A. Camarota and Karen Jensenius report there are now 1.3 million fewer unauthorized immigrants than in August 2007, when their numbers peaked at 12.5 million. With only 11.2 million now — 11 percent fewer — their numbers will be cut in half in five years if the trend continues.

Over the years, I have learned to look at reports on immigration with a jaundiced eye because those who produce them often spin them, too.

Using Current Population Survey data collected monthly by the Census Bureau, the researchers conclude that stepped-up enforcement is having an impact, which isn't surprising considering the source. After the last immigration reform package imploded last summer in the U.S. Senate, they say, “Secretary of Homeland Security Michael Chertoff and Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez stated that, ‘Until Congress chooses to act, we're going to be taking some energetic steps of our own.'â€