Panelists answered the question: Do you believe President Obama’s executive order – granting work permits to certain, young illegal immigrants – will take away jobs from American citizens or legal residents?
Marty Richman: “Yes, that’s inevitable since they will be added competition for jobs; however, the total number will be relatively small. It’s political, solves nothing, and invites a backlash.”
Richard Place: “Not really. I think the real problem is the inability of both parties to correct this injustice to young people that are left in a bureaucratic trap. Shame on our elected officials from both parties.”
Louise Ledesma: “No, these young people were brought to the US by parents who wanted a better life for their children. As a teacher for 35 years, I loved working with students who were recent immigrants because they were so hard working and respectful. Maybe they will take a few jobs from U.S. citizens, but it will be because they would outshine some of our youth who don’t know the value of hard work. Many US citizens wouldn’t apply for jobs these young people are willing to do. I also don’t buy the argument that their parents never paid taxes because everyone pays sales taxes. If they pay rent, they help pay property taxes and when they work, SS and income taxes are automatically taken out of their checks.
Steve Staloch: “Yes. With too many applicants for too few jobs and unemployment benefits ending for thousands, priority must be given to legal citizens and residents. We can’t afford to further dilute the employment pool.”
Ruth Erickson: “Whatever a person’s status, more people seeking employment with a limited number of jobs will diminish the opportunity of any of them gaining a job!”
