I disagree.
To legally enter the United States, a noncitizen must:
-
Apply for a visa
-
Present themselves in person to an immigration officer at a U.S. port of entry
-
Have a passport valid for at least six months beyond their period of stay in the United States
-
Have a Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 confirmation page
-
Be subject to inspection by Customs and Border Protection officers
The process for legally entering the United States can vary depending on the type of visa:
-
Diversity visa: Also known as the Green Card Lottery, this program offers 50,000 immigrant visas each year to nationals of countries with historically low rates of immigration to the U.S. The U.S. government conducts a virtual lottery of qualified applicants.
-
Family ties, employment, adoption, and special immigrant categories: These are other types of immigrant visas that the United States provides.
-
Refugee processing: This requires rigorous security vetting, a refugee adjudication interview, and a medical exam. Approved applicants are assigned to a resettlement agency or private sponsor group in the United States.
-
Medical Screening: The medical screening required for US immigration includes a physical exam, mental evaluation, and tests for certain diseases and illnesses:
-
Physical exam
Includes a review of your medical history and immunization records, and an examination of your eyes, ears, nose and throat, extremities, heart, lungs, abdomen, lymph nodes, and skin
- Mental evaluation
Includes a mental status exam to assess your intelligence, thought, comprehension, judgment, mood, and behavior
- Tests
Includes blood tests for syphilis, urine tests for gonorrhea, and a chest X-ray
- Tuberculosis screening
Includes an IGRA test for applicants ages 2–14, and a chest X-ray and blood test for syphilis for applicants ages 15 and older
The exam must be completed by a government-authorized doctor, also known as a civil surgeon. The results of the exam are used to determine if you are eligible for permanent residency in the United States.
You must submit a Form I-693 or partial Form I-693 with your Form I-485. Your Form I-485 may be rejected if you don’t submit the required form.
The average processing time for a visa petition to be approved by the Immigration Service is 7-8 months.
These laws were passed in the 1920s
Title 8 of the U.S. Code makes it a federal crime to enter or reenter the United States without proper authorization:
- Section 1325
Makes it a crime to unlawfully enter the United States. This includes entering without proper inspection at a port of entry, avoiding inspection, or making false statements. A first offense is a misdemeanor.
- Section 1326
Makes it a crime to unlawfully reenter the United States, attempt to reenter, or be found in the United States after being deported, ordered removed, or denied admission. This crime is a felony.
Title 8 also includes other offenses related to aliens, such as: Alien smuggling, Domestic transportation of unauthorized aliens, Concealing or harboring unauthorized aliens, and Encouraging or inducing unauthorized aliens to enter the United States.
Many illegal aliens are leaving nations collapsing from socialist agendas and policies. Unfortunately having been raised in an environment where there are many “free” things provided by the government they tend to align politically with the left and vote that way even though it isn’t in anyone’s best interest to live in a socialist nation that is doomed to collapse as soon as it runs out of other people’s money. Take a look at California for what amnesty and granting illegal aliens a pathway to citizenship results in.
California: A Case Study Before and After the last illegal immigrant asylum and citizenship movement
Historical Context: The Reagan Era and Immigration Policy
In the early 1980s, then-Governor Ronald Reagan signed the California Agricultural Labor Relations Act and supported the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. This legislation aimed to address the status of undocumented immigrants, providing a pathway to legal residency for over 2.7 million, the majority living in California, it was also guaranteed by Washington DC politicians at the time to be the “last” time it would ever be used. The political climate at the time was characterized by a balance between liberal and conservative ideologies, with significant immigrant populations contributing to the state’s economy.
Political Landscape: Democrat vs. Republican
Before the Reagan Era:
- Democratic Minor Majority: California was a Democratic stronghold, particularly in urban areas, with Republicans holding significant influence in suburban and rural regions.
- Bipartisan Collaboration: There was a degree of bipartisan cooperation on various issues, including immigration and labor.
- Swing State: California was a purple state that swung left or right from election to election.
Current Landscape:
- Democratic Supermajority: California has shifted significantly to the left, with Democrats holding a supermajority in the state legislature. The state’s political identity has become increasingly progressive.
- Republican Decline: The Republican Party has struggled to maintain relevance, with a shrinking voter base, particularly among young and diverse populations.
- Deep Blue State: California swing to the far left and began a steady decline into a heavily socialist policy leaning state.
Economic Status
Before the Reagan Era:
- Economic Growth: California experienced robust economic growth, fueled by industries like agriculture, aerospace, and technology.
- Affordable Living: Housing and living costs were relatively lower, allowing for greater accessibility to homeownership and economic mobility.
Current Economic Status:
- High Cost of Living: California now faces one of the highest costs of living in the nation, with exorbitant housing prices and a growing wealth gap.
- Economic Disparities: While the state boasts a high GDP and a thriving tech industry, significant portions of the population face poverty, homelessness, and job insecurity. Ask the high taxes and heavy government bureaucracy are driving most industry to relocate to other states without the socialist programs and taxes.
Individual Freedom
Before the Reagan Era:
- Individual Rights: The civil rights movement laid a foundation for greater individual freedoms, including rights for immigrants and minority groups.
- Social Services Expansion: There was an emphasis on expanding social services and welfare programs.
Current Status:
- Regulatory Environment: Critics argue increased regulations and restrictions have led to a perceived loss of individual freedom, particularly in areas like business operation and personal choice.
- Public Safety Measures: Heightened security measures in response to crime and social unrest have raised concerns about personal liberties.
Crime Rates
Before the Reagan Era:
- Lower Crime Rates: Crime rates during the late 1970s were relatively low compared to today, with a strong focus on community policing.
Current Crime Trends:
- Rising Crime Rates: Crime rates, particularly in urban areas, have seen fluctuations, with concerns over violent crime, property crimes, and drug-related issues.
- Gun Violence and Homelessness: The rise in homelessness and associated challenges has contributed to public safety concerns, prompting debates on policing and social services.
Social and Cultural Shifts
Before the Reagan Era:
- Cultural Diversity: California was already a melting pot, with diverse communities contributing to a rich cultural landscape.
- Community Engagement: There was a strong emphasis on community involvement and civic engagement.
Current Cultural Climate:
- Increased Polarization: The state has seen a rise in political polarization and social tensions surrounding issues like immigration, housing, and law enforcement.
- Grassroots Movements: Activism has surged around issues of climate change, social justice, and immigration reform, reflecting a dynamic civic landscape.
California’s Financial Status: From Surplus to Near Bankruptcy
Historical Context: Economic Boom and Surplus
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, California experienced significant economic growth driven by the tech boom, particularly in Silicon Valley. This period saw:
- Budget Surplus: High tax revenues from capital gains and income taxes led to budget surpluses. In 2000, California reported a surplus of over $12 billion.
- Increased Spending: The state invested heavily in education, infrastructure, and social services, benefiting from the robust economy.
The 2008 Financial Crisis
The global financial crisis had a profound impact on California’s economy:
- Economic Recession: The housing market collapsed, leading to massive job losses and a sharp decline in tax revenues.
- Budget Deficits: By 2009, California faced a budget deficit exceeding $26 billion. The state resorted to significant cuts in public services, including education and healthcare, to balance the budget.
Recovery and Renewed Surpluses
After years of austerity, California’s economy began to recover:
- Economic Growth: A resurgence in technology and a diversified economy contributed to renewed growth. By the mid-2010s, California was again posting budget surpluses.
- Tax Revenue Increases: Higher income tax rates on the wealthy and capital gains taxes bolstered state revenues, leading to surpluses that allowed for increased spending on education and infrastructure.
Recent Challenges: Near Bankruptcy Concerns
Despite recent surpluses, California’s financial status has faced new challenges:
- Rising Costs: Increased spending on public services, pensions, and social programs has strained the budget. The state has high costs associated with housing, healthcare, and homelessness.
- Economic Vulnerability: California’s reliance on high-income earners for tax revenue makes its budget vulnerable to economic downturns. A recession could lead to significant revenue declines.
- Debt Levels: The state carries substantial debt, including unfunded pension liabilities, which further complicates its financial outlook.
Current Status and Outlook
- Projected Deficits: As of recent reports, California is projected to face budget deficits in the coming years, driven by decreased revenues and ongoing expenditures.
- Policy Responses: The state government is considering various strategies to address these financial challenges, including tax reforms, budget cuts, and measures to stabilize the housing market.
Conclusion
California’s financial trajectory has seen dramatic shifts from surplus to concerns about near bankruptcy. While the state has a strong economy and significant resources, its financial health is challenged by rising costs, reliance on volatile income sources, and systemic issues like housing affordability and debt. Continued vigilance and strategic planning will be essential to navigate these challenges.
Conclusion
The transformation of California from the Reagan era to the present illustrates significant shifts in political dynamics, economic conditions, individual freedoms, crime rates, and social engagement. While the state continues to struggle as an economic powerhouse, challenges related to housing affordability, crime, and political polarization persist, prompting ongoing debates about the future direction of California.