Crackdown promised on illegal immigrants
DES MOINES: US Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump this weekend offered fresh details of how he would tackle illegal immigration, saying he would crack down on those who overstay their visas as he sought to quiet criticism from conservatives.
In a campaign speech in Des Moines, Iowa, Trump also cited the shooting death of a cousin of NBA star Dwyane Wade to urge African-American voters to rally behind him, calling it an example of violence that has to be addressed.
Trump sought to clarify his views on how to overhaul the US immigration system after saying earlier last week he was softening on his plan to deport all 11 million illegal immigrants.
That stance drew fire from conservatives who wanted him to stand fast after he won the Republican presidential nomination in large part by a hardline stance.
In his speech, Trump said he would seek to institute a tracking system to ensure illegal immigrants who overstay their visas are quickly removed, and would propose an e-verify system to prevent the illegals from gaining access to welfare and other benefits.
“If we don’t enforce visa expiration dates, then we have an open border – it’s as simple as that.”
In outlining his views, Trump said addressing illegal immigration is important to helping Americans find jobs.
“Every time an African-American citizen, or any citizen, loses their job to an illegal immigrant, the rights of that American citizen have been violated,” he said.
Trump said his first priority upon taking office in January would be the immediate deportation of thousands of illegal immigrants who remain in the US despite having committed crimes. – Reuters