# Border security and the common good
*2020-10-22*

> Bill Young and John O'Rourke discuss the critical importance of border security, comparing the immigration platforms of Donald Trump and Joe Biden through the lens of public safety and the protection of American workers.

## The Cost of Lax Enforcement

The episode opens with a sobering report from Texas, where a man with a long criminal record and illegal status was released by a district attorney without charges. Within 24 hours of his release, he shot and killed a police officer who was a 41-year veteran of the force. This tragedy serves as a catalyst for a broader discussion on the dangers of sanctuary policies and the failure to notify ICE when dangerous criminals are in custody.

John also highlights a recent roundup in Boston of 15 individuals from Central America involved in a cocaine and fentanyl ring. These examples underscore the argument that unregulated borders facilitate not only illegal immigration but also the trafficking of deadly drugs and the exploitation of people through sex trafficking.

## Analyzing the Democratic Platform

The hosts review Joe Biden's proposed immigration policies, expressing strong opposition to several key points. They criticize the idea of providing a pathway to citizenship for 11 million illegal immigrants and the proposal to dismantle parts of the border wall. Bill argues that the wall has been essential for national security and public health, particularly in limiting the spread of coronavirus.

Further concerns are raised regarding the cessation of workplace enforcement. Bill contends that ignoring I-9 requirements harms American union workers by allowing illegal labor to undercut wages and take jobs. They also argue that expanding 'chain migration' and providing free healthcare to illegal immigrants would dilute resources for US citizens, particularly affecting those relying on Medicare and Medicaid.

## The Case for Merit-Based Immigration

In contrast, the hosts support Donald Trump's approach to immigration. They advocate for a merit-based system that ensures immigrants can contribute to the country and are sponsored by individuals who guarantee they will not become a public charge. They also praise the Migrant Protection Protocols, which require asylum seekers to wait in Mexico while their cases are adjudicated, preventing them from disappearing into the US interior.

Bill notes that while some, including the Vatican, may speak against walls, the Vatican itself maintains a wall for security. He argues that a nation must have the right to protect its borders to ensure the safety of its own citizens.

## Political Power and the Rule of Law

The conversation shifts to the political motivations behind immigration policies. Bill suggests that the Democratic push for open borders is less about compassion and more about expanding their voter base through 'instant' citizenship. He expresses concern over the potential for 'packing the court' to change laws to suit this agenda.

Closing the discussion, the hosts touch upon current events regarding Hunter Biden and the lack of mainstream media coverage on his legal troubles. They conclude that the rule of law must be applied consistently, regardless of political affiliation, to prevent the chaos seen in sanctuary cities.

*True compassion for the immigrant must be balanced with the primary duty of a government to protect its own citizens and the integrity of its borders.*