I find it curious that Rhode Islanders were the first to kick the Brits out some 235 years ago; now Rhode Island welcomes back intruders with apparently open arms. I believe John Brown would be rolling over in his grave right about now.
The nation’s smallest State (in size) is allowing its own sovereignty to be worn away. I would suggest the State formally change its name to “Erode Island.”
The measure was supported by Independent Gov Lincoln Chaffee who was quoted… “This policy change will improve the intellectual and cultural life of Rhode Island while stretching our workforce and strengthening our economy.”
I would respectfully disagree and say it will do nothing of the kind. This burden placed on the citizens of Rhode Island will worsen job prospects in a State where the unemployment rate is the 5th worst in the nation at 10.6%!
Monday’s vote by the Board of Education was unanimous by 11 of the thirteen members and follows Governor Rick Perry of Texas labeling anyone who opposes this compassionate act is devoid of a heart. I continue to be astounded by the red-blooded Texan as he bleeds Blue. In no way can I support Perry for president when he flagrantly compromises American citizens to the benefit of illegals.
The list of States is now up to 12 who have enacted similar provisions to erase the burden of illegal aliens who wish to attend college. The other eleven States are California, Illinois, Connecticut, Nebraska, Maryland, Kansas, New Mexico, New York, Utah, and Washington State.
It concerns me American citizens are being compromised by the feel-good folks in the above-mentioned states. The accusation by those who oppose these tuition breaks for the law breaking parents is one that demonizes the opposing point of view calling them heartless and lacking of compassion.
I would dispute that. I believe we must help our own first: American citizens, and those who abide by the rule of law. One man who legally emigrated from Haiti to Rhode Island called the action by Rhode Island…“patently unfair.” I concur.
When Gov. Chafee was remind that individuals here in this country cannot legally drive without a license and that driver’s license is available to those who legally reside in the United States, the governor responded by recommending legislation to allow illegals to obtain drivers licenses. Folks, what ever Rhode Island’s politiocians possess in so-called compassion, they are sorely lacking in the common sense department.
Meanwhile the overwhelming majority of American support stronger border control and denying benefits to individuals that burden the taxpayer and compromise American citizens.
It would appear ideologues on the Left could care less what Americans think on the issue of illegal immigration.
Voters in Rhode Island will have the last answer when they cast their ballots in 2012.
Take back America 2012.
Roger Gitlin is a retired teacher and member of the National and Del Norte Tea Party. He also founded the Santa Clarita Valley Independent minutemen. He lives in Crescent City, California and can be reached at [email protected]. His commentaries represent his own opinions and not necessarily the views of any organization he may be affiliated with or those of the West Ranch Beacon.