George Putnam
Friday, Jan. 9, 2004

Little did I think that a conservative Republican would lead the charge on temporary-worker programs, green cards, visas, leading to amnesty on the installment plan and eventually citizenship. Bush is telling the world it's okay to sneak across our borders, manage to stay here for three years, renew your stay after three years, and you're home free.

Bush, with his offer to give jobs to any foreigner who is guaranteed a job once he arrives on our shores, is also telling the world that all the goodies that benefit legal citizens await those who violate our sovereignty. Come and get it! The door prize awaits you!

Is it any wonder that 34 percent of the illegals are on welfare? And 25 percent are behind our prison walls?

Bush's temporary-worker program would have no limit on the number of immigrant workers who could participate. Oh, he says jobs would be offered to American workers first, but workers from overseas or across the border could bring their families if they show they could support them.

The agriculture, hospitality and construction sectors are expected to be the main employers and Bush says workers who want to come to the U.S. would need to prove that they have a job waiting for them. The initial temporary-work visa would be good for three years and could be renewed. Once accepted as temporary workers, illegals could apply for green cards.

This reporter can only conclude that Bush is more interested in making a political play for the Latino vote during an election year than he is in changing policy for the good of America. Call it what you will, this is sheer amnesty! The Bush plan is a one-way street; all benefits go to Mexican President Vicente Fox and we'll be picking up the tab to the tune of $20 billion each and every year to cover the illegals.

We saw it coming when Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge called for some form of legal status for the illegals in this country. We saw it coming when Bush sought to insure that so-called "guest workers" that pay into Social Security are able to collect benefits after they return home. But who are they kidding? Let's face it: The United States of America is providing Mexico with the world's largest welfare system!

President Bush took an oath of office to protect the sovereignty of the USA. Yet day by day, inch by inch, he now appears to be giving it away. Within days Bush will be meeting with Mexico's Vicente Fox. Let's hope he doesn't give away the whole enchilada. Lest we forget, it all comes down to a question of what's legal or illegal, and these illegal aliens broke our laws.

The legendary George Putnam is 89 years young and a veteran of 69 years as a reporter, broadcaster and commentator ... and is still going strong. George is part of the all-star line-up of Southern California's KPLS Radio – Hot Talk AM 830. Click here for George's complete bio

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