The U.S. Senate recently debated an Immigration Bill (S. 1348) which would have legalized all of the estimated 12 to 20 million illegal immigrants in our country and paved the way for their families to join them. Senator Cornyn (R-Texas) introduced an amendment to this bill (S. Amdt. 1184) to establish a permanent bar for gang members, terrorists, and other criminals. This amendment failed 51-46.

Our two senators, Murray and Cantwell (D-Wash.) voted nay. Joining them were other Senate luminairies such as McCain(R-Ariz.) and Hagel(R-Neb.). Apparently, we as a nation are failing to produce enough felons, sex offenders and gangbangers. The effort to import those who are willing to do the work Americans will not is indeed bi-partisan.

John Lyness

Coupeville