As far as national issues are concerned, immigration reform appears to have moved ahead of climate change reform, much to the chagrin of economist Paul Krugman. On ABC’s This Week, Krugman lamented the shift and hoped for its reversal:
“This is one heck of an issue, it’s deeply divisive among both party’s, which is one reason not to rush it, not to push it to the top of the agenda right now. I’m kind of upset at the notion that this might push climate change off this year.”
Apparently, Krugman isn’t attuned to the urgency of immigration reform. Last Saturday’s enactment of an anti-immigration law, in the State of Arizona, was a wakeup call. The new law does nothing to curtail illegal immigration. But instead allows racial profiling.
But Krugman appears to be voicing the concerns of many within the democratic party. Law makers from both party’s are reluctant to begin debate. Immigration reform, after all, is perhaps the most divisive issue facing our country today. And unfortunately the White House’s inaction allows extremist, anti-immigration rhetoric to grow.
Right-wing talkers are already gearing up for battle. They clog the air waves with their anti-immigration rants and tirade. While the reasonable middle cower in their corner. The politics of fear must not supplant rational, debate.
It’s time for the Obama administration to act decisively on immigration reform before it’s too late. It’s time to put aside politics and get to work. It’s time to stump out xenophobia from debate. The time is now.
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