Immigration Protests

The protests against the awful House bill have started.

On Monday, protesters demonstrated in cities across South Florida, waving U.S. and others national flags. Many held signs with messages such as: "It is not about politics. It is about human beings. Stop being selfish," and, "We are hard working people. Give us a chance."

Police estimated more than 5,000 people marched in the Fort Myers, with many demonstrators taking buses in from the farming town of Immokalee. Across the peninsula, another 5,000 people marched in the working class coastal city of Lake Worth, about 60 miles north of Miami.

The immigration base will work with the brain dead of the Republican base. Most sensible people would rather hear about how Republicans will make their lives better. A shrinking middle class and confusing Medicaid program aren't big selling points. Immigration is an election year issue. Members of both parties have been (that means you, Diane Feinstein) guilty of pandering for the brain dead vote. No one seems to be discussing what kind of economic impact losing illegal immigrants will do to Florida's economy.

The House bill and Bill Frist's proposal have been splitting up the Republican Party. Jeb Bush spoke out against his own party on the issue.

"The cumulative effect of some politicians pounding their chests about immigration is hurtful to both of us," he wrote, referring to himself and his brother. "I fear they do so for current political gain at the expense of thoughtful policy over the long term."

Vilmar has taken time out from post Mary Carey photos to pound anti-immigration posts. I wrote in his comments, "Vilmar, say the words with me. The GOP is turning Hispanic votes away. What to do. Feed the inner-wingnut or win the midterm elections. Decisions. Decisions." Hispanics are the fasting growing group. Republicans alienate them at their own peril.