America is a nation of immigrants. But with 11.5 million illegal immigrants in the United States, the issue of illegal immigration is no longer just a social problem; it jeopardizes our national and economic security, as well. Each candidate has set a goal of decreasing the amount of illegal immigrants that make their way across our borders and each has promised to work with illegal immigrants who are already here. It is the candidates’ means of dealing with this issue that differ. The political ramifications of immigration have dominated our news cycle since the midterm elections. In states like Arizona and Alabama, legislation targeted at driving illegal immigrants from the state has become a rallying point for conservatives. Under these laws, near anyone who is suspected of being in the country illegally can be stopped and asked for proof of citizenship. The Supreme Court upheld Arizona’s “show me your papers” provision during a split decision last session, but struck down other elements of the law that classified activities like seeking work as an illegal immigrant as a criminal offense. The Court was very clear in its mentality that immigration is a federal – not state – issue, and major immigration policies should be set for all states by the federal government. Here in Alabama, we should be especially mindful of this issue. Alabama received worldwide attention with its anti-immigration bill, commonly known as HB56. State leaders said the action came as a result of federal inattention to the current immigration problems. President Obama and Gov. Romney have both called for greater federal action to improve the state of our illegal immigration problem.

Click the links below to view the opposing arguments:

Obama plans to focus on DREAM Act

Romney’s plan based on economy