Trump’s rhetoric on immigration divides us due to its racist framing. If Trump were sincere about solutions and not just stoking his base, he would instead fashion a comprehensive, centrist, practical immigration policy that could obtain broad support through benefits such as keeping our population and economy young, enhancing the talent in our work force, and enriching our communities.
What is a centrist, rational, immigration policy? It is a skills-based immigration policy, based on letting in a mix of those who immediately bring resources and talent to our economy, along with workers who will do tough jobs that Americans just will not do anymore. These lower salaried workers could either be guest workers, or rewarded after so many years of successful work and other skills attainment, such as mastery of English, consistent tax payments, etc., with a path to citizenship. This last point – guest workers versus potential citizens – should be a debate.
Border security is a necessary part of these overall discussions. Similarly, the discussion of border security and other enforcement mechanisms should not occur in isolation from an overall immigration policy. Decisions which are made on border security should effectively integrate with and support the details of the skills-based immigration policy Americans decide to agree upon. [Read more…] about Promoting A Rational Skills-Based Immigration Policy; This Is Neither Democratic or Republican; It is Centrist, Practical, and Celebrates Diversity While Supporting American Pride and Community