Tancredo was correct on N.H. immigration bill


Published: Sunday, Sep. 23, 2007

State Rep. Mike Kaelin's Sept. 13 letter to the editor ("Irate lawmaker replies to Tancredo's remarks") exemplifies the deceptive and irrational thinking so prominent in today's liberal-controlled Democratic party.

Contrary to Mr. Kaelin's interpretation, the Constitution is about human rights that apply to all legal people. Note the word "legal."

Polls show the vast majority of Americans believe the uncontrolled immigration of an estimated 10-20 million illegal aliens in this country is a monumental problem, resulting in costs to U.S. taxpayers estimated in the billions of dollars.

Efforts by other misguided Democrats such as Rep. Lily Mesa, D-Manchester, and Rep. Susi Nord, D-Candia, exemplify New Hampshire lawmakers who have abandoned rational thinking.

These two lawmakers have proposed HB 404, a law "prohibiting state and local law enforcement agencies from enforcing federal immigration laws." This bill would prevent law enforcement personnel from going after suspected terrorists who are also illegal immigrants.

This kind of radical thinking from far-left ideologues in the New Hampshire Legislature is dangerous to our safety and to our nation's security.

New Hampshire U.S. Attorney Tom Colantuono has said of HB 404: "It is unrealistic in the way law enforcement operates in the 21st century, in the wake of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. The bill, as written, would be a disaster."

Presidential candidate Tom Tancredo was absolutely correct when he said that such legislation and efforts to promote "sanctuary cities" are contrary to the welfare of our country.

Congressman Tancredo's assertion that bills like HB 404 would be "aiding and abetting" people to break the law. HB 404 would be "a pretty clear violation of the federal law," as Congressman Tancredo stated, and is unmistakably counter to the spirit, if not the letter, of the law.

It's time for Rep. Mike Kaelin and other left-leaning Democrats to re-evaluate their position on illegal immigration.

Charles and Diane Lothrop
Nashua

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