Utah Immigration Dilemma!

By Deborah Bulkeley -- Deseret Morning News Immigration bills brewing A Utah lawmaker who wants to take a tough stand on illegal immigration seems to be garnering support from the GOP — at least locally. And Sen. Bill Hickman, R-St. George, says the more people he talks to, the more support he gets. "The federal Congress ... have been unwilling to take the leadership role to get this done," Hickman said. "The states, as a result, across the nation are saying, 'Look, if you can't handle it, we will."' Hickman is modeling comprehensive Utah legislation after a new Oklahoma law, which is the broadest of 244 laws dealing with immigration passed so far this year in 46 states, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Two more bills are awaiting gubernatorial action, according to the new NCSL report, which covers bills passed as of Nov. 16. Some 1,562 bills dealing with immigration were introduced this year across the nation, including in Utah, the NCSL reports. "In the continued absence of a comprehensive federal reform of the United States' challenged immigration system, states have displayed an unprecedented level of activity," the report states.

"Driver Privilege Card"

The Spectrum, St. George, UT Bill veers off road WASHINGTON COUNTY -When Sen. Bill Hickman, R-Dist. 29, goes before his colleagues in the Utah Legislature to win their support for a bill he is sponsoring that would deny undocumented immigrants public benefits and in-state college tuition rates, and give law enforcement officers more freedom to work with federal authorities, he may also want to ask to rescind Utah's driving privilege cards issued to undocumented immigrants. It will be completely contradictory if he does not. Utah lawmakers can't have it both ways. They can't profess to be against illegal immigration when they have already supported legislation that enables certain privileges, such as the issuance of a driving privilege card to undocumented immigrants that permits them to use it as official identification, allowing them to purchase insurance and travel freely throughout the state.

"Driver Privilege Card"

By Glenn Thrush, Carol Eisenburg and Melissa Mansfield -- Newsday Spitzer dumps license plan for illegal immigrants. Now its Sen. Curt Brambles turn to dump "The Driver Privilege Card". WASHINGTON - New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer said Wednesday he was abandoning a plan to issue driver's licenses to illegal immigrants, but said that the federal government had "lost control" of its borders and left states to deal with the consequences. "I have concluded that New York state cannot successfully address this problem on its own," Spitzer said at a news conference after meeting with members of the state's congressional delegation. Spitzer said overwhelming public opposition led to his decision. The governor introduced the plan with the goal of increased security, safer roads and an opportunity to bring immigrants "out of the shadows." Opponents charged Spitzer would make it easier for would-be terrorists to get identification, and make the country less safe. Many New Yorkers agreed with them.

Utah Sanctuary cities!

By Bob Unruh -- 2007 WorldNetDaily Feds to hold 'sanctuaries' accountable 'We're not going to tolerate people blatantly disregarding our laws' Sanctuary cities – whether their law enforcement personnel deliberately obstruct federal immigration enforcement or simply ignore such violations when they encounter them – soon could be facing the wrath of the federal government in court, according to the Department of Homeland Security. Homeland Secretary Michael Chertoff recently told a congressional committee he didn't intend to "tolerate interference" by sanctuary cities that would block companies from participating in such programs as "E-Verify," which allows workers' IDs to be checked before hiring. "I intend to take as vigorous legal actions as the law allows to prevent that from happening, prevent that kind of interference," he told Congress.

Crack Down!

By Deborah Bulkeley -- Deseret Morning News Tough migrant measure on track Utah lawmaker isn't deterred by suit against similar Oklahoma law. A Washington County lawmaker says he's not deterred by a lawsuit filed recently against an Oklahoma law aimed at cracking down on undocumented immigrants and those who hire, harbor or transport them. Sen. Bill Hickman, R-St. George, says he will watch the suit, but he still plans to introduce a bill modeled after the Oklahoma law, which is considered one of the nation's toughest state immigration laws. The suit was filed recently by the National Coalition of Latino Clergy and other plaintiffs, including two churches, a restaurant and unnamed individuals. It claims the Oklahoma law violates the U.S. and Oklahoma constitutions and federal law. The plaintiffs are seeking an injunction to try and stop the law from taking effect on Nov. 1. Rohit Sharma, an attorney for the plaintiffs, says the law is vague enough that it "could have a lot of different meanings." He said it violates constitutional rights to due process and equal protection and that it attempts to override federal authority when it comes to immigration.

Enforce the Laws!

By Deborah Bulkeley and Nancy Perkins -- Deseret Morning News Utahns want crackdown on illegal immigration A new statewide Deseret Morning News/KSL-TV poll suggests most Utahns want their state and local lawmakers to crack down on illegal immigration. Some 70 percent of 409 registered voters said they'd be more likely to vote for candidates who advocate a tough stand on illegal immigration through new laws, according to a survey conducted by Dan Jones & Associates. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 5 percent. Only 18 percent said they'd be less likely to vote for a get-tough candidate. Another 11 percent said they didn't know. The results seem to indicate most people recognize a problem and want a solution, said Kirk Jowers, director of the Hinckley Institute of Politics. "I think what the question does not answer is what form that solution will take," he said. "Utahns have shown they are sympathetic to the children of illegal immigrants and giving them opportunities, but they certainly want people to abide by the law and favor legal immigrants over illegal immigrants." When broken down along party lines, the strongest support for get-tough candidates was among Republicans, at 77 percent. But a majority of Democrats (56 percent) and independents (67 percent) also said they'd be more likely to vote for a get-tough candidate.

Try Again, Utah

By Deborah Bulkeley -- Deseret Morning News Law on illegal immigration touted A Washington County lawmaker wants Utah to pass a law modeled after one of the nation's toughest state laws aimed at cracking down on illegal immigration. Sen. Bill Hickman, R-St. George, has opened a bill file called "Illegal Immigration" and plans to introduce the measure during the 2008 legislative session. He said the bill, still being drafted, will be patterned after a law passed in Oklahoma earlier this year. The Oklahoma law includes methods to keep undocumented immigrants from obtaining jobs or public benefits. It also creates a felony for harboring or transporting an undocumented immigrant, punishable by at least one year in prison or a minimum $1,000 fine. "Because the federal government is not doing anything, the federal government is out of the business, so to speak," Hickman said. "The states are picking up the banner and moving forward with it. We can get things done where apparently the federal Congress can't." Hickman says his bill would give the state the tools it needs to "begin to limit the illegal immigration of folks into our state." The Oklahoma law, however, has been called too harsh by the the National Coalition of Latino Clergy and Christian Leaders. The group plans to file a federal lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of the law, according to The Associated Press. The group is also considering asking for an injunction to prevent the law from taking effect Nov. 1.

Utah, Expect a human tsunami

Daniel González---The Arizona Republic Most undocumented workers watching, waiting The state's new employer-sanctions law and other measures aimed at cracking down on illegal immigration already have prompted many undocumented immigrants to pack up and move out of Arizona. But the majority of the 500,000 are staying put - for now. Many are waiting to see if two lawsuits aimed at blocking the sanctions law are successful before making a decision to stay or go. Others are waiting to see how the law will be enforced. If a large-scale exodus does materialize, it probably won't begin until December, just before the new law takes effect Jan. 1, say immigrants, church leaders and immigrant advocates. December also is traditionally when many Mexican immigrants, who make up the bulk of the state's undocumented population, return home for the holidays. By then, a federal judge is expected to have ruled on lawsuits that claim the sanctions law should be struck down on the grounds that it is unconstitutional. "There is no doubt that people have left, but I see no evidence of massive leavings," said Alfredo Gutierrez, who hosts a popular talk-radio program for immigrants on La Campesina (88.3 FM), a Spanish radio station. "But certainly people are really talking about it." Some are thinking about going back to Mexico. Others are considering moving to states such as Oregon, Utah

WorldNetDaily.com Feinstein to Bush: Free Ramos, Compean Decides after Senate hearing to ask president to commute sentences. After presiding over a Senate hearing today, Sen. Dianne Feinstein has decided to ask President Bush to commute the sentences of former U.S. Border Patrol agents Ignacio Ramos and Jose Compean, an aide for the California Democrat told WND. Feinstein will have a letter delivered to the White House tomorrow, said spokesman Scott Gerber. Following the Senate judiciary committee's examination of the controversial prosecution, according to Gerber, the senator said "it became very clear the sentences did not match the crime." Ramos and Compean are serving 11- and 12-year prison sentences, respectively, after a jury convicted them of violating federal gun laws and covering up the shooting of a drug smuggler as he fled back to Mexico after driving across the border with 742 pounds of marijuana. U.S. Attorney Johnny Sutton's office gave the smuggler, Osbaldo Aldrete-Davila, immunity to serve as the government's star witness and testify against the border agents. Feinstein concluded the hearing today with a vow to look further into why prosecutors charged the men under section 924(c) of the U.S. code, which requires a 10-year sentence for using or carrying a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence.

By Jerome R. Corsi Mexican trucks approved for long-haul trips in U.S. Federal officials have confirmed that the first Mexican truckers have been given authorization to run their long-haul rigs throughout the United States under the Department of Transportation's Mexican trucking demonstration project. The word came during a late-night surprise teleconference held by John Hill, the administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. He told selected reporters that Transportes Olympic of Nuevo Leon was the first company to be given the authorization. "This program was literally announced under the cover of darkness," James P. Hoffa said in a Teamsters press release issued by his office today. "I have no doubt the Bush administration knows how angry the American people are about it." Hoffa continued, "I cannot understand why George Bush is jeopardizing the safety and security of the American people."

By WorldNetDaily.com Now Arizona law chases illegals out 'I would say we are losing at least 100 people a day' A new Arizona state law to require employers to verify the immigration status of employees is being blamed – and credited – for chasing illegal aliens out of the state. It's the second such development in just the last week: WND reported earlier how a new Oklahoma law requiring the deportation of arrested illegal aliens was prompting an exodus from that state. The developments are the result of state actions already launched when a brokered plan in the U.S. Senate to create a path to legal residency for the millions of illegal aliens in the country collapsed. The new report comes from the Arizona Republic, which said the state's strong economy has been a magnet for illegal aliens for years, but the law is looming on Jan. 1. "I would say we are losing at least 100 people a day," Elias Bermudez, founder of Immigrants Without Borders and host of a daily talk-radio program aimed at undocumented immigrants, told the newspaper.

By Deborah Bulkeley and Suzanne Struglinski Crackdown set on illegal workers White House acting in absence of new laws Criticizing a lack of congressional action on immigration reform, two key members of the Bush administration rolled out a new plan Friday to crack down on workers whose names don't match their Social Security numbers and the employers who hire them. Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff and Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez said Friday the action was needed in the absence of new laws. "We're obviously disappointed in the fact, as is the president, that Congress has not chosen to act on our comprehensive solution," Chertoff said, referring to a failed Senate bill that would have provided a pathway to legal status for most of the nation's 12 million undocumented residents and bolster enforcement. "But until Congress chooses to act, we're going to be taking some energetic steps of our own." The new regulations, which take effect in 30 days, give employers 90 days to either clear up mismatches between names and Social Security numbers when they receive a letter from the Social Security Administration, or fire the employee. They also boost by "about 25 percent" civil fines for employers who don't comply with the law. Enhancements to a federal Internet-based verification program, now called E Verify were also announced.

CNN Correspondents Dana Bash and Andrea Koppel Senate immigration bill suffers crushing defeat WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Opponents effectively killed President Bush's long-fought and emotion-laden Senate immigration bill Thursday when members voted against advancing the controversial legislation. The tally was 46 to 53, 14 votes shy of the 60 needed to end debate. The president, who visited the Capitol this month to push hard for overhauling the nation's immigration laws, delivered a brief statement shortly after the vote saying he was "sorry" Congress could not reach agreement, calling its "failure to act" a "disappointment." (Watch Bush explain why he was disappointed by the vote ) "Congress really needs to prove to the American people that it can come together on hard issues," Bush said. The bill aimed to create a path to citizenship for some of the 12 million illegal immigrants and to toughen border security. Explaining his reasons for voting against the bill, GOP Sen. Jeff Sessions, a leading critic of the measure, said "it would not work." "Our analysis was that it would result in 8.7 million more people in the next 20 years here illegally," said the Alabama senator.

By Elaine Jarvik, Deseret Morning News Immigration players learn debating skills A dozen "ordinary citizens" got together to talk about — but not debate — illegal immigration Saturday in the second meeting of an experiment called the Citizens Council on Immigration. The council is the brainchild of Westminster College philosophy professor Jeffrey Nielsen, who believes that in a democracy ordinary citizens have the right and duty to be consulted before policy and laws are enacted. Saturday's event followed a Citizens Council meeting last week attended by immigrants and refugees. Next week, both groups will meet together to try to reach some consensus on specific questions. That meeting, which will include both members of the anti-illegal immigration Utah Minuteman Project and undocumented workers, may prove more explosive than the past two — although Nielsen has spent nine hours now teaching the groups about the process of dialogue and deliberation. Saturday's session left Minuteman member Phil Morgan feeling unsatisfied.

TARA BURGHART--The Associated Press Immigrants (aka illegal aliens) disappointed over defeat Along the Mexican border in Brownsville, Texas, Esmeralda Gavino echoed the disappointment of many illegal immigrants like her when she said that the immigration reform bill torpedoed on Capitol Hill was not perfect, but it was at least something. "It's sad that the senators can say, `OK, let's just roll up the carpet. We have more important things,'" said the 35-year-old woman, who cleans houses for a living and was with her two young daughters at a parish community center. "They don't have enough time for discussions, but they have time to build a wall. It wasn't a very good reform in my opinion, but it was something. It was a light." The measure that failed a crucial test vote in the Senate on Thursday would have tightened the borders while also giving up to 12 million illegal immigrants a pathway to legal status — provided they are willing to pay thousands of dollars in fees and penalties and return to their homelands to apply. Now illegal immigrants and businesses that employ them are left wondering what the future holds.

East Valley Tribune, Arizona--Sarah N. Lynch Hispanics change face of Mormon faith Mesa, Arizona -- Luis Cruz grew up in the Catholic tradition that his parents taught him in Chiapas, Mexico. But when he came to Phoenix more than three years ago, he developed a spiritual void that the Catholic Church was unable to fill. "During the course of a whole year, I could not find a single church here," the 33-year-old landscaper said in Spanish. "I didn't know where there were masses. I couldn't find a Spanish church that was nearby." That changed when a woman he knew in Mesa invited him to come and meet with two missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The meeting was the catalyst for his eventual move to Mesa and his conversion from lifelong Catholicism to Mormonism. "What really impressed me about (the missionaries) was that they didn't speak badly about other churches," he said. "They speak to you about Jesus ... They speak to you about the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost. It's the same thing they do in the Catholic Church. The only difference is that in the Catholic religion, there are saints." Mesa, which was incorporated by Mormon pioneers in the late 1870s, is often thought of as a conservative, white, LDS-dominated community. But as the Hispanic population continues to grow, some newly arrived Mexican immigrants are abandoning their traditional Catholic roots for the Mormon faith. At the beginning of 2002, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints only had five congregations within 10 miles of downtown Mesa that offered services in Spanish, said Elder Wilford Andersen, a church official who oversees LDS affairs in the Southwest. Today, that number has more than doubled to 13 Spanish-speaking congregations throughout Mesa.

Tonya Papanikolas--KSL Television Teachers from Mexico to Help Fill Positions in Utah School Districts SALT LAKE CITY--Several Utah school districts have just hired a total of 12 new teachers from Mexico. The State Office of Education has been working on the plan for almost a year. This is part of an agreement Governor Huntsman made with Mexico when he visited there a couple years ago. School districts say they're happy about it. The teachers will be filling positions that districts can't seem to staff right now. At the same time, the teachers will help a growing population of Hispanic students in the state. School districts are having a harder and harder time finding elementary school teachers, science and math teachers. Human Resources Director for Granite School District Mike Fraser says, "Right now, as we speak, we still have 30 elementary positions to fill."

Lou Dobbs CNN Dobbs: A call to the faithful NEW YORK (CNN) -- The separation of church and state in this country is narrowing. And it is the church, not the state that is encroaching. Our Constitution protects religion from the intrusion or coercion of the state. But we have precious little protection against the political adventurism of all manner of churches and religious organizations. The leadership of the Catholic Church and many Protestant churches, as well as Jewish and even Muslim religious organizations, are driving that political adventurism as those leaders conflate religion and politics. And while there is a narrowing of the separation between church and state, there is a widening schism between the leadership of churches and religious organizations and their followers and members.

Deborah Bulkeley -- Deseret Morning News Utah House favors hosting talks on immigration Utah House members overwhelmingly support a proposed discussion this summer on illegal immigration, though it likely won't rise to the level of a previously planned daylong summit. "This is still a concept in design," said House Majority Leader David Clark, R-Santa Clara, Wednesday following a discussion on the idea at a House Republican Caucus meeting. When asked if they'd support such a meeting, nearly all present raised their hand. "The House and the Senate often have the same idea, but a different angle," Clark said. "It would be helpful to have a cross section of ideas." Rep. David Litvack, D-Salt Lake, said Democrats also supported the idea, as long as the discussion remains objective. "We need different perspectives," Litvack said. "We don't need a forum based on political rhetoric. ... To me this is an opportunity to become better informed."

We the people, Who?

Deborah Bulkeley -- Deseret Morning News Tougher stance on illegals? Poll of Utahns shows desire for restrictive measures Utahns appear to be shifting toward a tougher stance on illegal immigration, according to a new Deseret Morning News/KSL-TV television poll. The survey shows overwhelming support for passing more "restrictive measures" in Utah. It also shows a decline in support for allowing undocumented college students to pay in-state tuition if they attend high school here for three years and graduate. Some 91 percent of the 416 Utahns polled by Dan Jones & Associates said Utah lawmakers should enact restrictive measures such as requiring employers to verify a new hire's legal status or requiring applicants for public benefits to show proof of legal status. Some 79 percent said such laws "definitely should" be passed; only 7 percent opposed it. The poll's margin of error is 5 percent. The restrictive measures received strong support among conservatives but were also supported by a majority of moderates and liberals in the statewide poll conducted Nov. 14 to 16.

KSL CHANNEL 5 -- Gene Kennedy Reporting Petition Calls for Tougher Approach to Immigration Law Some Utahns who feel the immigration bill being proposed is too lax have delivered a petition to the offices of Senator Orrin Hatch and Senator Bob Bennett. The petition asks the senators to take a tougher approach when it comes to guarding our nation's borders. There are die-hards in the Utah Republican Party who say they're tired of hearing about guest worker programs and paths to citizenship. They say it's just amnesty for people who are breaking the law, and they believe our Republican senators, Orrin Hatch and Bob Bennett, are soft on the immigration issue. The new federal immigration law now before Congress would allow illegal immigrants to become citizens, but only if they pay a fine and return to their home country for a period of time.

Jonathan Weisman--Associated Press Writer Senators Unmoved by Bush Bid to Save Immigration Bill WASHINGTON--In a rare visit to Capitol Hill, President Bush pressed Republican senators yesterday to resurrect the compromise overhaul of the nation's immigration laws, but many of the senators instead demanded that his administration first show a more determined commitment to border security. The visit was the first time in five years that Bush had come to the Capitol for the Republican senators' weekly policy luncheon. He and senior administration officials painted the meeting -- coming five days after the collapse on the Senate floor of the tenuous compromise on immigration -- as a rescue session. Bush made an impassioned plea for the legislation, saying "the status quo is unacceptable." "Now is the time to move a comprehensive bill that enforces our borders and has good workplace enforcement, that doesn't grant automatic citizenship, that addresses this problem in a comprehensive way," he said after the lunch. Although senators described the meeting as cordial, even jovial, they also said the president's efforts to rally GOP support did not win any converts. "We're off the bill. We ought to stay off the bill for a while," said Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.), one of the bill's sternest critics.

The Associated Press Bush offers concession on immigration WASHINGTON - President Bush, hoping to salvage immigration overhaul legislation, has agreed to an upfront infusion of money for federal border security efforts in a concession designed to win over skeptical conservatives. Bush supports setting aside all the fees and penalties in the bill solely for tougher security on the border and workplace enforcement, White House press secretary Tony Snow said Thursday. The president on Monday morning will make the announcement of his backing for an amendment that two Republican senators have proposed to accomplish this end. The provision would immediately divert $4.4 billion toward border security, with that amount to be paid back once the new fees are in place, Snow said.

JULIE HIRSCHFELD DAVIS--Associated Press Writer Bush to push immigration bill at Capitol WASHINGTON - President Bush, wading deeper into an issue that bitterly divides his party, hopes a personal appeal to fellow Republicans at lunch Tuesday can save his immigration bill. Bush scheduled a rare visit to the Capitol, seeking to change enough minds among GOP senators to salvage a top domestic priority. The measure, which legalizes up to 12 million unlawful immigrants and tightens border security, stalled last week in the face of broad Republican opposition. "I think one of the things that we have to do is answer the skeptics, answer the doubters," White House press secretary Tony Snow said Tuesday. "We not only have a good sound bill, but it's also one that a lot of conservatives, when they get a chance to look at it, will say OK," he said on NBC's "Today" show. Scott Stanzel, another White House spokesman, said Bush "will talk about the fact that immigration reform is too important to let this opportunity pass, and this is the best opportunity that we have had in decades to reform the broken immigration system."

THE WASHINGTON TIMES -- By Stephen Dinan Senate bill waives 'alien absconders' Illegal aliens who have been caught and ordered deported, but who are currently defying that order, could be allowed to stay and even get on a path to citizenship under the Senate immigration bill. They are known as "alien absconders" for having ignored the law or been deported and re-entered the country illegally. There were more than 623,000 fugitive aliens, according to a March report by the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General -- up more than 200,000 since 2003.

2007 Romney for President, Inc. Governor Mitt Romney On The Senate Immigration Agreement Thursday, May 17, 2007 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Boston, MA - Governor Mitt Romney issued the following statement on today's U.S. Senate agreement on immigration reform: "I strongly oppose today's bill going through the Senate. It is the wrong approach. Any legislation that allows illegal immigrants to stay in the country indefinitely, as the new 'Z-Visa' does, is a form of amnesty. That is unfair to the millions of people who have applied to legally immigrate to the U.S. "Today's Senate agreement falls short of the actions needed to both solve our country's illegal immigration problem and also strengthen our legal immigration system. Border security and a reliable employment verification system must be our first priority."

JIM GALLOWAY -- The Atlanta Journal-Constitution Gingrich, Romney decry 'amnesty' Former speaker visits state GOP convention Newt Gingrich and Mitt Romney, two Republicans with the White House on their mind, on Friday denounced a bipartisan attempt at immigration reform as "amnesty" while speaking before delegates to the state GOP convention. "This is a press release to give away 12, 15, 20 million U.S. citizenships," Gingrich said. "It's a perfect Teddy Kennedy bill. It's a big government fantasy with no hope of becoming reality, but it sounds good." Gingrich, a former Georgia congressman and U.S. House speaker, has said he's interested in running for president in 2008 but hasn't formally announced. A former resident of Cobb County, he's lived in Virginia for the past seven years or so.

JULIE HIRSCHFELD DAVIS -- Associated Press Writer Deal may legalize millions of immigrants WASHINGTON (AP) -- In a striking reach across party lines, the White House and key lawmakers agreed Thursday to reshape the nation's immigration laws and give millions of illegal immigrants legal status. At the same time, borders would be tightened. The compromise brought liberal Democrats and conservative Republicans together with top members of President Bush's team on an issue that carries heavy potential risks and rewards for all involved. The Senate will wade into an emotional and wide-ranging debate on the issue next week that promises to test the unlikely coalition that produced the deal. Almost instantly, the plan brought vehement criticism from both sides of the immigration issue, including liberals who called it unfair and unworkable and conservatives who branded it an overly permissive "amnesty."

Changing Utahs Culture

USA Today -- By Haya El Nasser Immigrants turn Utah into mini-melting pot SALT LAKE CITY — In the shadow of the Mormon faith's majestic headquarters, the fountain at the center of the Gateway Plaza outdoor mall is a popular backdrop for weddings. On a scorching day, Hispanic and Anglo children run side by side through the pulsating sprays of water. Marriage and kids: They're the pillars of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), which dominates many facets of life in Utah. But diversity? Immigration is changing the complexion of communities across the USA. As it sweeps through Utah, traditionally one of the least diverse and most conservative states in the nation, its impact is particularly dramatic. About 98% white until 1970, Utah is becoming a mini-melting pot.

Mark Shurtleff Supports Illegal Alien Lawlessness

Deborah Bulkeley -- Deseret Morning News AG Mark Shurtleff comes out again in support of Illegal Alien lawlessness in Utah SALT LAKE CITY - Utah Attorney General Mark Shurtleff said that as the state's chief law enforcement officer he strongly opposes the bill HB105, which he sees as a detriment to public safety. "The bottom line is, we have a job to do here," Shurtleff said. "Every moment we spend hauling in an illegal immigrant pulls us away from doing other things to keep the streets safe." Shurtleff added that undocumented immigrants could be less likely to report crimes if they perceive local officers as federal agents. "I'm all for having the feds do their jobs," Shurtleff said. "We need to be doing our jobs, not theirs."

Border Patrol How is NASCAR Helping CBP Border Patrol Recruit Top Talent? To ensure that America has sufficient "boots on the ground" for its protection, CBP Border Patrol is now pursuing an ambitious hiring and recruitment program--aiming to hire 6,000 new agents. To that end, CBP Border Patrol has teamed up with Jay Robinson Racing for a 25-race sponsorship on the #28 Chevy that will run through the remainder of the 2007 NASCAR Busch Series season. The Chevy made its debut May 11 at Darlington Raceway during the Diamond Hill Plywood 200.

Utah Quotes We the state government Comments of shame from our elected officials regarding the nonresident alien immigration proposals for the 2007 session: July 2006: There will be renewed efforts to repeal a law granting in-state tuition to some undocumented college and university students, and another law that allows illegal aliens to drive using a driving privilege card. Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. continues to support keeping the tuition law and the driving privilege card in place, said Mike Mower, the governor's spokesman. January 2007: There is no question whether Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr. supports in-state college tuition for undocumented students. Huntsman said Thursday he would "very seriously consider vetoing" the bill to repeal the state law that allows eligible undocumented Utah high school graduates to pay in-state tuition. "I'm going to fight it," he said in an interview with The Tribune. It is unusual for Huntsman to threaten to veto a bill before lawmakers begin their annual session. January 2007: Chris Cannon admits congress is a complete failure dealing with the illegal immigration disaster in this Country. January 2007: Mark Shurtleff as the state's chief law enforcement officer said he strongly opposes the bill HB105, which he sees as a detriment to public safety. "The bottom line is, we have a job to do here," Shurtleff said. "Every moment we spend hauling in an illegal immigrant pulls us away from doing other things to keep the streets safe." ?

Kidnappings of Americans at an all time high!

State Department -- Washington DC US State Department Issues Mexico Travel Warning to Americans US State Department Issues Mexico Travel Warning to Americans today. This Public Announcement advises U.S. citizens on security situations in Mexico that may affect their activities while in that country. This Public Announcement supersedes previous Public Announcements for Mexico dated January 18, 2007 and September 15, 2006. This Public Announcement expires on October 16, 2007. Narcotics-Related Violence - U.S. citizens residing and traveling in Mexico should exercise caution when in unfamiliar areas and be aware of their surroundings at all times. Violence by criminal elements affects many parts of the country, urban and rural, including border areas. In recent months there have been execution-style murders of Mexican officials in Tamaulipas (particularly Nuevo Laredo), Michoacan, Baja California, Guerrero (particularly Acapulco), Nuevo Leon (especially in and around Monterrey) and other states. Though there is no evidence that U.S. citizens are specifically targeted, Mexican and foreign bystanders have been injured or killed in some violent attacks demonstrating the heightened risk in public places. In its effort to combat violence, the Government of Mexico has deployed military troops in various parts of the country. U.S. citizens are advised to cooperate with official checkpoints when traveling on Mexican highways.

"Yes, it can be done."

The Arizona Republic Bush aims for reform at border Return trip to Yuma to focus on migration YUMA, AZ-President Bush returns to Yuma today to promote what the White House called "significant immigration reform," one year after he announced the deployment of 6,000 National Guard troops along the Mexican border. In Yuma, Bush will stress four elements that he wants to see in an immigration bill: more border security; better enforcement of immigration laws in the interior, especially laws against hiring undocumented workers; a temporary worker program to address labor shortages; and "resolving without amnesty and without animosity the status of the millions of illegal immigrants that are here right now," White House spokesman Scott Stanzel said.

Alien Street Rallies across America

Associated Press Immigration Activists Call for May 1 Boycott to Demand Rights LOS ANGELES - Immigration activists are calling for a repeat of last year's massive boycott and march that drew more than one million people to the streets in dozens of cities nationwide. The so-called ``Great American Boycott Two'' is being planned for May 1. The first protest, which occurred May 1, 2006, temporarily shuttered businesses and schools across the country as people took to the streets in Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami and other cities. The boycott was fueled by anger over federal legislation that would have criminalized illegal immigrants and fortified the U.S.-Mexico border. The goal was to raise awareness about immigrants' economic power. The legislation later stalled in Congress.

UMP standing for the rule of law

PRESS RELEASE The UMP will hold a counter demonstration against the ``Great American Illegal Alien Boycott Two'' State and federal legislation is needed that would criminalized illegal immigrants, stop these intimidation marches and fortified the U.S., Mexico and Canada borders. Special Notice: There will be a gathering of illegal aliens and their supports protesting the rule of law today. This is a follow up to last years Dignity Day. The gathering will be this afternoon at the City and County building in Salt Lake City. Look for Utah Attorney General Mark Shurtleff, were sure he will be there cheering them on!! Stand for the rule of law..join the counter demonstration at 3:00PM The Utah Minutemen will gather on the north side of fourth south between state and second east beginning at 3:00PM.

Great Job ICE

Deborah Bulkeley -- Deseret Morning News Agents raid meat plants in Utah, other states Federal immigration agents executed civil search warrants this morning at the Swift & Co. meat processing facility in Hyrum, Cache County, and at five other Swift facilities in other states. The warrants allow U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents to search for and apprehend illegal alien workers as part of a work site enforcement investigation that started in February, according to a release by the federal agency. The investigation has uncovered an identity theft scheme in which U.S. citizens and lawful residents' identities were stolen in order to gain employment at Swift, ICE said. ICE executes warrants in worksite enforcement investigation     involving a large–scale identity theft scheme ICE Raids in 6 States Met With Anger, Cheers Future holds uncertainty for immigrants' children Raid puts immigration back on front burner Raid sparks a petition For more ICE Raid information visit the UMP Yahoo Group web site

UMP standing for the rule of law

Deborah Bulkeley and Linda Thomson -- Deseret Morning News 15 Mexico citizens are indicted Federal indictments were handed down Wednesday for 15 Mexico citizens who were among 145 people arrested in last Tuesday's raid at the Swift & Co. meat-packing plant in Hyrum. Some of those arrested are also facing state criminal charges. Tom Smart, Deseret Morning NewsPeople rally at the Federal Building in Salt Lake City Wednesday in support of those arrested in the Swift raid in Hyrum. One indictment was sealed; the 14 others allege such crimes as identity theft, false use of a Social Security number, sale of citizenship papers and illegal use of documents for employment. The arrests emerged after federal officials grew suspicious about massive identity theft that led to raids at Swift plants in Utah, Texas, Colorado, Nebraska, Minnesota and Iowa. In all, 1,282 people were arrested in what was called "Operation Wagon Train." Some are not facing criminal charges, but face deportation.

Axis of Amnesty

Lou Dobbs -- New York Dobbs: Voters won't tolerate 'axis of amnesty' Hang on, the political thrill ride is about to begin. Are you ready? I know I am. And it's gonna be a hoot. Our midterm elections are now two months away, and congressional, senatorial and gubernatorial campaigns are about to shift into high gear. After five weeks at home with their constituents, or at least some of them, our elected representatives are now back in session in Washington and fully armed with an understanding of the will of the people, ready to do the people's business. Their first order of business? Why, to announce there will be no business done in this session of Congress on the critically important issues of border security and immigration reform. Can you feel the excitement?

Lou Dobbs Tonight on CNN

Lou Dobbs -- New York Dobbs: Keep religion out of politics NEW YORK (CNN) -- We're about 40 days away from November's critically important midterm elections, and the campaign volume is rising. The political strategists, campaign managers, and the partisan savants will be working overtime to excite their conservative, liberal, Republican and Democratic bases, trying to get at least 50 percent of us who've registered to vote to actually go to the polls. As in election years past, they're going to have a lot of help, and not just from PACs, labor unions and 527 groups like MoveOn and Progress for America. Oh no, we're going to be treated to something akin to, and as close as we should expect to get to, divine intervention. Evangelical Christians, Jews, Catholics, Muslims and Mormons are already getting rowdy, not only on their respective pulpits, but in the mail, on the air and certainly on the campaign trails.

Mitt Romney

Joe Shortsleeve -- CBS 4 News, BOSTON Troopers Can Arrest Illegal Immigrants say's Romney (CBS4) BOSTON There are questions about new powers that will be given to some state troopers here in Massachusetts. For the first time, those troopers will be able to arrest illegal immigrants. Until now, only certain federal agents could detain immigrants, but this new measure has some experts worried. Illegal immigrants have staged protests across the country -- demanding a quicker road to citizenship and appreciation for their critical role in the U.S. economy. Now there's word, that a select number of Massachusetts State Troopers will be given the power to arrest illegal immigrants. Ali Noorani, executive director of the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition is not happy. "(The) immigrant community feels profiled… feels under pressure… feels they can't trust the police… nobody wins in that situation." These specially trained troopers would not be able to stop an immigrant because they thought they were in the country illegally, they could only stop them for speeding or a broken taillight and only then could they inquire about their immigration status.

Deborah Bulkeley -- Deseret Morning News Poverty linked to a lack of English SALT LAKE CITY - More than one in four Utah households in which no member is fluent in English live off an annual household income of $15,000 or less, according to a new U.S. Census Bureau report. Linguistically isolated households made up only about 3 percent of Utah households in 2000, yet those without a solid grasp of English were more likely to have less education and lower incomes, according to the recently released report based on the 2000 Census. The report considers a household to be linguistically isolated if all members of the household age 14 and older have at least some difficulty speaking English. It found that of 14,894 linguistically isolated households, 27 percent had an annual income of $15,000 or less, compared to 11 percent of all of Utah's 581,802 households. Some 44 percent of linguistically isolated households made less than $25,000, compared to 23 percent of all households. Nearly half of the linguistically isolated lacked a high school diploma or the equivalent. Some 60 percent were foreign-born individuals who had immigrated in the past decade; and only 14 percent of the householders had lived in the United States for more than 20 years.

Mark Shurtleff Illegal Alien Amigo Award Recipient

Deborah Bulkeley -- Deseret Morning News Mexico to give Shurtleff its top award SALT LAKE CITY - When using Spanish to address crowds of mostly Latino immigrants, Utah Attorney General Mark Shurtleff draws cheers when he invokes the words of the late farmworker rights leader Cesar Chavez: "Yes, it can be done." Shurtleff is about to join the ranks of leaders like Chavez when he receives Mexico's Order of the Aztec Eagle Award, that nation's highest honor for foreigners who serve Mexico or humanity. "I'm blown away," said Shurtleff, who will receive the award Friday in Mexico City. "It's too big for me to even figure out." Past recipients include the likes of Chavez, late Texas Sen. Lloyd Bentsen and New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson. The award is given by the office of the foreign minister on the instruction of a selection committee established by the president. Shurtleff's work on "human issues" in terms of protecting minorities has distinguished him as likely the first Utahn and Mormon to receive the honor, said Mexican Consul Salvador Jimenez. "It's a reflection of his close ties with Mexico, and his friendship toward Mexico, our community and our country," Jimenez said. "He is also in favor of bringing our country closer to the great state of Utah." The Order of the Aztec Eagle (Spanish: Orden del Águila Azteca) is the highest decoration awarded to foreigners in Mexico rendering distinguished service to Mexico. NOTE: Raul Yzaguirre: president of the National Council of La Raza leader in 1974 is a recipient of The Order of the Aztec Eagle. Archie Archuleta, chairman of Utah Coalition of La Raza said Shurtleff has been a good friend to the Hispanic (illegal alien) community and has been "very just" (non-enforcement) on immigration issues.

Deborah Bulkeley -- Deseret Morning News Few Hispanics are voting Thousands of Latinos took to Utah's streets to protest stringent immigration legislation pending in Congress last spring. But that new activism didn't necessarily translate into voting on Election Day, according to a Brigham Young University exit poll. Census estimates show that Hispanics comprise nearly 11 percent of the state's population, but the BYU exit poll shows they accounted for only about 2.8 percent of those who voted on Nov. 7. That number is up just slightly from 2.4 percent in the 2002 interim election. It's down from the 2004 presidential election, when an estimated 3 percent of those who cast ballots in Utah were Hispanic. Much of Utah's Hispanic population arrived in the state since 1990, and learning the importance of voting and getting into the habit don't happen immediately, said Kelly Patterson, director of BYU's Center for the Study of Election and Democracy.

Shell Game

(AP) -- SCOTTSDALE, AZ. President Bush has signed a measure that would erect 700 miles of new fencing along the border with Mexico. President Bush has signed a measure that would erect 700 miles of new fencing along the border with Mexico. But he says it's only a partial solution to illegal immigration. On a campaign stop in Arizona, the president said he still wants Congress to pass a guest worker plan to relieve pressure on the border by cutting the numbers trying to sneak across. Mexican government predicts border fence probably won't be built Cornyn: 700 miles of border fence won't happen, Senator says plan     isn't practical, doesn't have the necessary funds. Bush to Sign Mexico Border Fence Bill Another town gets tough on illegals

Mark Krikorian "Interesting Opportunities" Are amnesty and open borders in our future? Before election night was even over, White House spokesman Tony Snow said the Democratic takeover of the House presented “interesting opportunities,” including a chance to pass “comprehensive immigration reform” — i.e., the president’s plan for an illegal-alien amnesty and enormous increases in legal immigration, which failed only because of House Republican opposition.. At his press conference Wednesday, the president repeated this sentiment, citing immigration as “vital issue … where I believe we can find some common ground with the Democrats.” Will the president and the Democrats get their way with the new lineup next year? Nope.

"Yes, it can be done."

McClatchy Newspapers -- Dave Montgomery Democratic victory may pave the way for Bush's immigration plan WASHINGTON - If President Bush can find a silver lining in the Democratic takeover in Congress, it could be this: The outlook for enacting his sweeping immigration plan, which House Republicans blocked for two years, suddenly looks brighter. A 700-mile border fence pushed through the Republican Congress also could come under renewed scrutiny. Although Bush signed the fence legislation into law, Democratic leaders opposed the measure and may hold up funds for the project, which is expected to cost at least $2.2 billion. "I can't think of another issue that could bring together the Democratic Congress and the president like immigration," said Frank Sharry, executive director of the National Immigration Forum, which supports the president's initiatives. "This election has really changed the immigration debate forever."