Mexico Demands U.S. Allow More Immigration

I read one of the more outrageous quotes I have ever read today. At a meeting in Mexico City to discuss immigration and guest worker programs, Reuben Aguilar, Pres. Vincente Fox's spokesman said:

"migrants don't emigrate because they lack work, but rather for a series of other reasons, cultural reasons or better living conditions."

You can't make this stuff up. This is Onion-esque. Why doesn't Vicente Fox just ask for Congress to pass a special "Mexico Tax" that would levy $.01 on all minimum wage labor? That way Mexico could just get its money without all the people coming here, right? Let's turn this around and imagine the following discussion.

Canadian journalist:

"Please tell us about President Bush's new guest worker program targeting Canada."

Scott McClellan, White House Press Secretary:

"President Bush feels that Canada needs to do a better job accomodating those who are choosing to emigrate to Canada."

Canadian journalist:

"But aren't these illegal immigrants just looking for jobs because of the high unemployment rate in the United States?"

Scott McClellan:

"Not at all. This isn't a job issue. The people emigrating to Canada are really looking for a new culture experience and some great weather. I resent the implication that we can't take care of our own in the United States."

• Dignan
• Politics
• Culture
• Immigration
• Mexico
• International