How Immigration Affects US Cities, Research Paper Example

Immigration is a debatable issue in the United States.  One of the major problems observed is the rise in the number of immigrants entering the United States.  In fact, immigration comprises 40% of the total population growth per year in the United States.  (Hansen, 2007)  The primary concern with the large increase in immigration is the correlation effect of illegal immigration and undocumented immigrants entering from countries such as Central America and Mexico. (Card, 2007)  Illegal immigration has increased from five to twelve million over a span of twelve years, which has further issued concern over border control.  In addition, statistics have shown that most illegal immigrants from these countries have little to none English skills and low education levels.  Immigrants entering from other countries, such as China or India do have education and work skills; however, the overall effect of lower education and lower skilled immigrants decrease the economy in the United States. (Card, 2007)  Also, illegal immigrants take jobs at a lower salary, as well as work under the table, which results in the taking of jobs from citizens in search of position.  A decrease in the overall economy also results in unsatisfied American citizens, who are concerned with the effects of illegal immigration within the United States.  Congressional censuses suggest in order to decrease the amount of illegal immigrants in the United States, that the immigrants are converted to citizens.  (Card, 2007)  There are strong economic and political consequences to illegal immigration. With these consequences, there is also the result of a decrease in national security.   The continual rise in the levels of illegal immigrants entering from Mexico can also increase the chance or occurrence of international terrorism.  No cases or links to illegal immigrants from Mexico have been established;  however, this is a concern about border patrol and the ability of illegal immigrants to enter the United States.

References

Card, D.  (2007).  How Immigration Affects U.S. Cities.  Cream Discussion Paper. UC

Berkely. Retrieved from:  http://davidcard.berkeley.edu/papers/immig-affect-us.pdf

Hanson, G. (2007).  The Economic Logic of Illegal Immigration.  CSR No. 26. Council on Foreign Relations.