Immigration in America: Balancing Opportunity and Law
By Giuseppe Palmeri, Jackson Township Councilman
America has long been a land of opportunity, a beacon for those seeking a better life. My own grandparents immigrated to this great nation over 60 years ago, chasing the American dream and working hard to achieve it. Their story, like so many others, reflects the promise of this country. However, that promise relies on a foundation of laws, and when those laws are disregarded, it creates significant challenges for our communities and our nation.
I do not oppose immigration—in fact, I celebrate it. But I strongly oppose illegal immigration and policies, such as those in sanctuary states like New Jersey, that shield illegal immigrants from deportation. Every country has borders and laws, and these must be respected and enforced. Ignoring them undermines our sovereignty and puts undue strain on resources meant to serve our legal residents.
Unchecked illegal immigration has a measurable impact on our communities. Schools are overcrowded, making it harder for teachers to provide quality education. Towns are stretched thin, with local infrastructure struggling to accommodate a growing population. Hospitals are overwhelmed, and taxpayers are left to foot the bill for services that were never designed to handle such demand.
Furthermore, open borders allow criminals to exploit the system, slipping into the country undetected and hiding among innocent people. The rapid increase in fentanyl and other drugs crossing our southern border is evidence of this failure. These drugs devastate families and communities across the country, including right here in New Jersey.
New Jersey’s sanctuary state policies have compounded these issues. We’ve seen firsthand the effects: overcrowded schools, multiple families and individuals living in single-family homes, increased crime, and rising homelessness. These issues are not just statistics; they’re real problems that affect the quality of life for all residents.
What the United States needs is a fair, efficient, and enforceable immigration system—one that welcomes those who follow the rules and contribute positively to our society. Canada’s point-based immigration system offers a compelling model. By prioritizing skills, education, and the willingness to fill gaps in the labor market, Canada ensures that immigrants are set up for success while meeting the needs of its economy.
Imagine an immigration system where applicants earn points for having a trade, a college degree, or the willingness to settle in areas of the country that need workers in specific industries. This system would reward effort and merit while creating a pathway for those who want to contribute to the American dream.
At the same time, we must make the legal immigration process more accessible and transparent. For many, the current system is confusing and slow, pushing some to seek alternative—and illegal—routes. Simplifying and streamlining the process, while maintaining a strong vetting system, is crucial for ensuring that America continues to be a land of opportunity without sacrificing the rule of law.
The United States is indeed a nation of immigrants, but it must also be a nation of laws. By enforcing our borders, ending sanctuary policies, and implementing a merit-based immigration system, we can strike a balance between welcoming those who seek a better life and protecting the resources and safety of our communities.
As Americans, we must remember that compassion and accountability are not mutually exclusive. Together, we can create an immigration system that honors our history, secures our future, and upholds the values that make this nation great.