I originally posted this as a comment on Dan's What would you do? entry to the Speak Out California weblog.
Now that even the redefined center is thinking that maybe blaming homosexuals for everything is silly, they need a new scapegoat -- and immigrants were America's first widespread scapegoat.
Add in the hype (which may not be supported by facts) about outsourcing and the perennial fear (which may be supported by facts this time) that the next generation is too lazy to work, and it's the perfect irrationally divisive issue...just in time for 2006.
Now for the part I'm not so sure about: a big deal is being made about how immigration is dividing the Republicans, but their base votes on Godliness and truthiness rather than on issues (except perhaps abortion.) The Democrats, however, often /do/ vote on issues -- and we're divided too. Out here in California, where ccompassion and empathy are often politicized, we will most likely be forced yet again to hold our noses and vote for someone who has made discompassionate statements for political gain.
Where is the party of compassion? Where is the candidate who says "I feel your pain" -- and means it?
