Should Joe Biden Grant Citizenship to Illegal Aliens in the US? The Complexity of Immigration Policy
The debate over granting citizenship to illegal immigrants in the United States has gained immense traction in recent years, with one prominent political figure suggesting that it may be a solution. However, the complexity of implementing such a measure raises numerous questions and challenges that cannot be overlooked.
Understanding the Terminology: Illegal Aliens and Citizenship
The term 'illegal aliens' has been a point of contention in the immigration discourse. It is important to understand the terminology correctly and the legal framework that governs immigration in the United States.
In the U.S., a person seeking to enter the country temporarily must obtain a nonimmigrant visa. A permanent resident, on the other hand, must obtain an immigrant visa to live and work permanently in the country. A 'legal immigrant' is someone who has been granted the right to live and work in the U.S. permanently, which means they have been issued an immigrant visa.
Why a False Premise?
The assertion that granting citizenship to 11 million illegal immigrants will automatically solve the problem is erroneous. In the words of United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP), there is only one official pathway to legal immigration: the application for and the grant of an 'Immigrant Visa'.
Granting citizenship involves a lengthy and rigorous process, which includes background checks, interviews, and compliance with various legal requirements. Simply amnestying illegal aliens without following the proper legal procedure would not only negate the rule of law but also create an irregular situation that could lead to further complications.
The Consequences of Amnestying Illegal Aliens
It is misleading to argue that the grant of citizenship to 22 million illegal aliens will be beneficial for the country. While some may argue that it would provide legal status to those individuals, it doesn’t address the root causes of illegal immigration, such as economic disparities, political instability, and lack of legal pathways.
Granting citizenship to masses of illegal aliens without the proper vetting process could lead to security risks, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and economic strain. Moreover, it could demoralize those who follow the legal process, leading to a breakdown in the rule of law.
The Unique Case of the United States
The United States is unique in its handling of illegal entry. Unlike many other countries that may impose severe penalties or even execution for illegal entry, the Biden administration has adopted a more lenient approach. This has led to the situation where illegal aliens are treated with considerable hospitality, including access to 5-star hotels and three meals a day.
While this approach is criticized for being soft on illegal immigration, it is a reflection of the US’s commitment to due process and human rights. Any change to this approach must consider these principles and the potential impact on both national security and public opinion.
Conclusion
The question of whether Joe Biden should grant citizenship to illegal aliens in the United States is a complex issue that requires a nuanced understanding of immigration law and policy. Granting citizenship without proper vetting would not only undermine the rule of law but could also exacerbate the very problems it aims to solve.
Instead of a blanket amnesty, a more strategic approach that includes stringent vetting, increased legal pathways, and a focus on addressing the root causes of illegal immigration is necessary. This would not only be more effective but also more respectful of the principles that underpin American democracy.