Letter: Where do we draw the line on immigration?

I read The Salt Lake Tribune column by E. J. Dionne: “Joe Kennedy and Fall River Values” (Feb. 1).

First, I totally grasp the sentiment, which is both practical, sentimental, but sometimes not exactly legal to appropriate if taken out of context, to be sure, I believe in Thomas Jefferson’s view that “We” as Americans, and as humans, are all “created” equal with certain unalienable rights.

However, that is contingent on the times, the circumstances, and the responsibilities maintained or shrugged-off in the weeks and years after one’s birth.

I believe in “legal immigration.” I watched Rep. Joe Kennedy II’s impassioned pleas after President Trump’s State of the Union speech. I personally wish the response could be delayed a day or so. That way “facts” could be brought-in.

I am mindful that his great uncle, President John F. Kennedy deported many illegal immigrants during his presidency. I admired JFK and I understand the sentimentality, yet where do we draw the line? If immigration laws “fall” based on sentiments, where does it all stop?

Joe, sorry, you’re no Jack Kennedy. President Kennedy did what his oath of office required: He discharged the law. Deporting is difficult; but has precedents.

James A. Marples, Provo

from The Salt Lake Tribune http://ift.tt/2nzKi1k