Bush On Immigration

By BJ Austin, KERA News

DALLAS – Former President George W. Bush was keynote speaker this morning as 20 immigrants from 12 countries became US citizens in ceremonies at the Bush Presidential Center on the SMU campus.   Bush focused on the contributions of immigrants and called for a “positive resolution” of the immigration debate.

With a background of American flags and song, George W. Bush told the audience each generation of immigrants brings new vitality to America.

“Newcomers have a special way of appreciating the opportunities of America, and when they seize those opportunities our whole nation benefits.”

On the current immigration reform debate in Washington, Bush says the laws governing the immigration system aren’t working, that the system is broken.

“I don’t intend to get involved in the politics or the specifics of policy.  But I do hope there is a positive resolution to the debate. And I hope during the debate that we keep a benevolent spirit in mind, and that we understand the contribution immigrants make to our country.”

During his administration, Bush’s immigration overhaul plan included a guest worker program and a path to citizenship.  Congress killed it. .

The ceremony preceded a Bush Institute panel discussion on immigrant contributions to the Texas economy.  Panelists also talked about how naturalization and immigrant integration are good for the US economy as well.

Marine Corps Private First Class Antonio Villaceran is one of the 20 new citizens.  “I love what George Bush is doing right now.  I think it’s a wonderful thing.”

Villaceran came to the US in 2001 from the Philippines.  He was 8 years old.  He says his family has worked very hard, and becoming a US Marine, and a US citizen was his dream.

Murray Chapman also took the oath of citizenship at the ceremony.  He’s lived in North Texas for 14 years, coming from New Zealand.  He says immigration rules need to be clear and enforced.

“I don’t think anybody should walk straight on in.  There should be rules and regulations.  There should be.”

University of North Texas political scientist Matthew Eshbaugh-Soha says Bush’s bully pulpit at the Presidential Center in Dallas could influence the discussion in Washington, even though the former president says he’s staying out of it.

“Perhaps as a former president from his own Bush  Center can advocate for a sensible dialogue and a practical solution.”