Nothing is quite so infuriating as a salesman presenting a rip-off as an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

In his recent column, “DACA legislation could be a win for all Americans” (Sept. 16), Gordon Adams describes the DREAM Act as a “gift from the gods.” It is really a Trojan horse. He describes it as a chance for the Republican Congress to show they can get something done — I am not sure how passing the Democrats’ agenda would be counted as a win.

There are several problems with the legislation. First, it would likely cover at least 2 million to 3 million people, not the 800,000 currently enjoying DACA protection. Secondly, the standards of the program regarding education, criminal history, and employment are all much looser than we have been led to believe; for example, taking an English as a Second Language course could qualify you (and some reports suggest up to half of applications contain fraudulent information).

Third, despite talk of “innocent children,” people up to age 17 would be eligible, which would include many who did come of their own volition (also, if given citizenship, DREAMers could sponsor their parents, who were at fault for them being here illegally).

Fourth, people who are supposedly “American in all ways but one” (editorial, Sept. 7) are allowed to use a translator to apply — meaning that fluent knowledge of English is not required.

On the topic of DREAMers being “American,” does anyone else remember Live Oak High School banning American flag shirts on Cinco de Mayo because students of Mexican heritage were offended? Wanting legal status in order to exploit the country is not the same thing as wanting to be a part of it.

We need internal and border enforcement, the wall, and mandatory E-Verify before we even think about another amnesty.

Michael Jose

Augusta


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