The Immigration Debate and U.S.-Mexican Relations

June 25, 2007

Immigration has become the most debated issue of domestic U.S. policy this year; while the theme is universal, Mexico will be more affected than any other country by the decisions the United States makes. It is evident from congressional discussions and the viewpoints expressed in the media that immigration policy is a fiercely contested subject. It is possible that no new legislation will emerge this year because the divisions in the Congress are deep and cut across party lines. However, some decisions already have been made, such as to build real and virtual fences along the U.S. border with Mexico.