Tuesday, July 08, 2008

McCain on First   [Byron York]

McCain got into trouble recently when, speaking off the cuff, he pledged to secure the borders but left out the word "first."  From his speech a few moments ago to the League of United Latin American Citizens:

I and many other colleagues twice attempted to pass comprehensive immigration legislation to fix our broken borders; ensure respect for the laws of this country; recognize the important economic necessity of immigrant laborers; apprehend those who came here illegally to commit crimes; and deal practically and humanely with those who came here, as my distant ancestors did, to build a better, safer life for their families, without excusing the fact they came here illegally or granting them privileges before those who have been waiting their turn outside the country.  Many Americans, with good cause, did not believe us when we said we would secure our borders, and so we failed in our efforts. We must prove to them that we can and will secure our borders first, while respecting the dignity and rights of citizens and legal residents of the United States. But we must not make the mistake of thinking that our responsibility to meet this challenge will end with that accomplishment.  We have economic and humanitarian responsibilities as well, and they require no less dedication from us in meeting them.

07/08 12:38 PMShare