As we have written previously,
both immigration reform critics and Hillary Clinton have falsely suggested that Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) had
backed off his support for a
path to citizenship. To the extent there was either genuine
confusion or wishful thinking — or an effort by aides to play it down — Rubio has now left no doubt as to his position.
Asked
in New Hampshire if he supported a path to citizenship, he said, “I do.” He
continued that we nevertheless have to do two things — secure the border (and
set up e-verify) and fix the legal immigration system. He points out, “In the
21st century it must be based on what skills you have and what you have to
contribute economically.” Then, he said, Americans will be “very generous but
responsible.” He would require a background check, paying a fine, paying taxes
and receiving legal status; after “at least a decade,” they could apply for
permanent residency, and several years thereafter apply for citizenship.
Rubio
has the most credible record of any candidate (other than Sen. Lindsey Graham,
who was part of the same Gang of Eight) insofar as he vigorously pursued
immigration reform with a pathway to citizenship in the Senate. He rightly has
pointed out that Hillary Clinton talks a good game but never did anything. He
should be able, then, in a general election setting, to deprive the Democrats
of one historic advantage in appealing to Hispanics.
