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February 22, 2008
Dems Spar on Immigration in Presidential Debate
The N.Y. Times website allows one to both watch the video of the debate last night in Austin Texas between Democratic contenders Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. By following the links, it is possible to watch (and see the transcript of) the part of the debate devoted to immigration. There were no real surprises in the discussion of immigration. However, Senator Obama explicitly recognized that the national debate over immigration has in the past led toward charged rhetoric -- and even hate crimes -- directed at Latinos. Senator Obama also expressed support for the DREAM Act.
Both candidates voted for the Secure Fence Act but expressed concern over how the fence was being constructed by the Bush administration. I also sensed a move by both candidates away from support for a border fence.
KJ
February 22, 2008 | Permalink
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Comments
I've not heard of any significant increase in hate crimes against Latinos. Where's your proof? In the absence of documented evidence I have to conlude that this is a fabrication promulgated by Hispanic advocacy groups.
Posted by: Horace | Feb 22, 2008 7:24:10 PM
Horace, here is a link.
http://www.cnn.com/2007/US/law/11/19/hate.crimes.ap/
Posted by: Richard | Feb 25, 2008 5:20:20 PM
Horace, here is another piece on hate crimes against Latinos.
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=17563862
Posted by: Richard | Feb 25, 2008 5:23:40 PM
The aggregate numbers are so small in comparison to the national statistics for non-hate assaults and murders as to be insignificant. The hyperbole of advocacy groups on this issue is similar to their efforts to call attention to deaths in the desert, but considering the number of people engaged in and injured by risky behavior of all kinds at any time, and the 50,000 people killed in car accidents, for example, 400 people dying in the desert is rather small. Considering the notoriety of the illegal alien problem, its a wonder that the numbers of hate crimes are not much higher. And Latinos themselves are partially responsible for the trend, as they've made public spectacles of their demands, essentially the suspension of our laws for their benefit (did they really think no one would object) that were bound to provoke isolated extreme actions. Latinos can't continue to provoke the indignation of this country without expecting an increase in dislike for them.
Posted by: Horace | Feb 26, 2008 11:26:19 PM
