During the U.S. presidential debates, the word "immigration" was mentioned only once, odd for a time of steep job losses, when bashing foreign workers might normally sell. Why the high road? One reason: John McCain, who has a pro-immigration record, hardened his stance for the election but may not want to highlight his flip-flop. Barack Obama, for his part, favors a path to citizenship—not exactly grist for a populist crusade.
Finally, while immigration was a hot issue in the 2006 elections, it's not anymore because migrants aren't flocking to the U.S. The housing-market slide has gutted jobs in construction, a crucial sector for immigrants. The household income of noncitizen foreigners sank 7 percent in 2007. As a result, Mexican immigration fell by 25 percent last year, and Central American by 50 percent. The challenge for the next president may be how to lure them back.
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
