Gallegly Objects to Change in Immigration Policy

Last week, President Barack Obama announced a change in immigration policy wherein illegal immigrants who do not have criminal records may be allowed to stay in the United States and apply for work permits. This week, Rep. Elton Gallegly, Moorpark’s congressional representative, voiced his objections to the change in a letter to the president.

Gallegly, a Republican, urged Obama to reverse his selective deportation policy and instead focus on creating jobs.

“This decision, in addition to undermining the enforcement of our immigration laws, is a direct assault on the 14 million Americans and legal immigrants who are looking for a job to support themselves and their families,” Gallegly wrote. “It will result in higher unemployment and lower wages and benefits for many Americans, especially, but not limited to, those in the minority community.”

Under the U.S. Constitution, Gallegly said, it is Congress’ job to create immigration policy and the president’s job to enforce it.

“Granting what is effectively an amnesty to 300,000 illegal immigrants in the process of being deported is a clear abuse of your discretion,” Gallegly wrote.