Josh Moenning

In the following viewpoint, Josh Moenning makes a sharp distinction between legal and illegal immigration. America has a long tradition of immigration, he argues, and legal immigrants can both benefit themselves and enrich the nation. However, illegal immigration can lead to social problems such as crime and the formation of prejudices against minorities. The United States must take steps to control illegal immigration in part to ensure the future of legal immigration, he concludes. Moenning was an opinion columnist for the Daily Nebraskan, the student newspaper at the University of Nebraska.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. Why would it be hypocritical to oppose all immigration, in Moenning’s view?
2. What do polls reveal about America’s public attitudes toward immigrants, according to the author?
3. What are some of the negative effects...