In 2006, 2007, 2010, 2013 and 2014, Congress considered and rejected legislation to legalize illegal immigrants. Many Americans want Congress to stop passing amnesties for illegal immigrants and their employers. They want their laws enforced impartially. No special deals for those who cheat the system. And that’s why President Obama’s immigration amnesty didn’t pass last year.

Thumbing his nose at the Constitution and the American people, Obama signed an executive action in December, giving 5 million illegal immigrants work permits, Medicare and Social Security.

Nor will most employers and illegal immigrants be prosecuted for colluding in tax evasion, document fraud or identity theft. The 5 million will then be eligible to compete for any American job.

Obama didn’t mention this part in announcing his action. With imperial arrogance, Obama simply erased our current immigration laws and unilaterally imposed on America the very immigration policies that Congress has repeatedly rejected.

He should be stopped. Last week, the House passed a Homeland Security bill that defunds the president’s amnesty. Sens. Susan Collins and Angus King have sworn to uphold the Constitution. While we might have differences over immigration policy, something more important is at stake this week. The Senate should reclaim its right to determine our laws and pass this bill. Call Sens. Collins and King today.

Jonette Christian

Mainers for Sensible Immigration Policy

Holden

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