Campaign 2008
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THE ISSUE: IMMIGRATION

McCain talks about immigration

John McCain
  • Sponsored 2006 "guest worker" bill that would have allowed illegal immigrants to stay in the US, work and apply to become legal residents after learning English, paying fines and back taxes and clearing a background check.
  • Has reversed his earlier support for the "guest worker" program, saying it is more important to secure the border first.
  • Would teach immigrants English (voted "yes" in 2007 to make it the official language).
  • Supports deporting 2 million illegal immigrants who committed crimes.
  • Wants to build a fence and boost enforcement along the Mexican border.
Obama talks about immigration

Barack Obama
  • Would increase border security and hold employers of illegal aliens accountable.
  • Would make immigrants learn English (voted "no" on making it official language of US).
  • Supports driver's licenses for illegal immigrants.
  • Voted "yes" on guest worker program and on letting illegal aliens benefit from Social Security.
  • Voted for 2006 bill offering legal status to illegal immigrants subject to conditions, including English proficiency and payment of back taxes and fines.
  • Voted for border fence.