The current presidential candidate has been accused of using fear and hate as weapons to silence dissent and undermine the rule of law. He portrays almost everyone, especially immigrants, whether legal or undocumented, as a threat. Those who are Black or brown or speak with an accent are his chosen victims. However, statistics show that the surge of immigration beginning in 2022 has led to significant economic growth in the United States following the pandemic. Immigrants contribute greatly to GDP and tax revenues.
Former President Ronald Reagan once spoke about the importance of new arrivals and their contributions to the nation. He emphasized the energy, new ideas, and leadership that immigrants bring, expressing a more positive outlook on their impact. Despite popular belief, violent crimes, murders, and property crimes have decreased significantly with immigrants bringing dreams and aspirations with them to the country. Embracing these newcomers and their potential for growth can help move the nation forward away from the darkness cast by one candidate’s rhetoric.
Jerry Hanson from Elkhorn echoes this sentiment in his letter urging readers to put fear and hatred aside in order to progress as a nation. If you would like to share your thoughts with the editor, send your letter to tctvoice@madison.com including your full name, hometown, and phone number for verification purposes. Letters should be kept to 250 words or less.
