When Republican candidates speak about immigration what they are really doing is stoking primitive fears that white folks will be overrun with non-white voters who will become Democrats. If you are not tribal or xenophobic in your thinking, this may escape your ears as the real message.
I live in California. We love our Hispanic neighbors. Some of us remember that they were here before the white folks. Their heritage and history are celebrated here. It is a beautiful blend of cultures that uplifts our state in every possible way. We have a great economy to boot.
Republican politicians can get some cover for their nativism by framing it as an economic argument. No one wants to think they are racist, so it’s convenient to have a rationale that makes their voters feel better.
The truth is we have plenty of room for immigrants of all kinds. They add both to the economy and cultural diversity of the country that makes America an interesting place to live. The scary nonsense and fear mongering about immigration resonates with a dwindling number of people who call themselves Republican.
Their numbers aren’t falling because they are being replaced by immigrants, it is their policies. Empathy and common sense are compatible. A majority of Americans, are at their core, just.