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Trump hardens stance on Mexico border; says 15,000 troops could be sent

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By Jeff Mason and Idrees Ali

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119 Comments

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“Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” 

those were the days....

8 ( +15 / -7 )

Let's hope the hoards of illegals arrive at the border on or just before election day.

Not to be pedantic but these individuals aren't yet in the US, so are notbyet immigrants. This means they are not undocumented or documented immigrants.

Feel free to continue to use the degrading language of "hordes" and "illegals" to dehumanized these people. Conservatives love dividing through stoking fear and hate, so it's only natural for them to dehumanized others.

13 ( +18 / -5 )

BurningBush: Nice save, bro!

3 ( +8 / -5 )

Not to be pedantic but are they in Mexico legally?

They haven't been arrested in Mexico, so must be.

8 ( +13 / -5 )

And the Mexicans even stated they have nothing that they could arrest these people for.

Which means they are there legally. And as they are not living there, they are not immigrants.

10 ( +15 / -5 )

Burning Bush:

Let's hope the hoards of illegals arrive at the border on or just before election day.

That's impossible. More than 1000 to 2000 miles on foot! If they ever reach the border, it will take two or three months at best.

8 ( +11 / -3 )

Just because they haven't been arrested doesn't mean they have legal status in Mexico.

Grasping at straws.

Regardless, they could be the nicest people on earth, but what matters is that with the right camera angles and video editing, the impressionable, emotionally driven 30 plus American female voter can easily be made to believe that a Zombie Apolocalpse is descending upon America's border and only the GOP can stop it.

And who says conservatives don't spread falsehoods to stoke fear that causes decisions to be made from emotion? Thanks for coming clean about this, most conservatives deny it.

8 ( +10 / -2 )

@burningbush Regardless, they could be the nicest people on earth, but what matters is that with the right camera angles and video editing, the impressionable, emotionally driven 30 plus American female voter can easily be made to believe that a Zombie Apolocalpse is descending upon America's border and only the GOP can stop it.

Thank you for pointing out ways rightwing media and propagandists of all sorts, including paid employees of the Internet Research Agency, can so easily influence the intellectually and emotionally vulnerable.

Targeting specific demographic groups, including Trump's 'poorly educated', NRA members, white nationalist organizations among others has been effective for Russians and US ultrarightists . Pizzagate a case in point.. Goebbels and Stalin would have been proud.

7 ( +9 / -2 )

James Mattis: We don’t do stunts.

military is headed to secure the border. Like, really do it.

-8 ( +8 / -16 )

Trump has called the caravan "an invasion" and this has been repeated by GOP and some media commentators. An invasion is for the purpose of taking over so the president is worried that 1000 people made up of unarmed children and toddlers, women and men are going to take over a country of 325 million people.

How ridiculous! A scared people are the Americans who actually believe or worry about that happening. It shows why they don't give up their guns. They are so scared of anything that moves, even penniless children from Guatemala who have nothing but the clothes on their backs.

These people are looking for help and a better life and the US is so scared they send their well trained military to "defend" their southern border. With compassion like that it is no wonder mankind can kill the only world it has to live on and not really care.

We all deserve what we get.

10 ( +14 / -4 )

Good! They will be able to process the asylum requests very speedily!

5 ( +6 / -1 )

We are entering dangerous times when a POTUS deploys U.S. Troops purely for Political purposes.

What a colossal waste of taxpayer dollars, for a publicity stunt.

16 ( +19 / -3 )

Think about it US citizens :

At least 5,000 troops will be send to sit on their asses for weeks, waiting for a group of 3,500 that will certainly be even less by then.

How much of your tax money do think it will cost you ?

Think about that next time teachers ask for a small raise, or a city asks to drink clear water.

14 ( +16 / -2 )

If they wanted to legally immigrate to the USA, why didn't they visit the US Mission in their home country and request immigration and/or asylum there?

Crazy - when Obama sent troops to the southern US border in support of CBP, was that a publicity stunt too?

The crowd coming this time is much larger, so having more backup to CBP seems like a good idea. We wouldn't want any families to be separated, right?

-9 ( +6 / -15 )

It's not an invasion, they are not illegal, most are intending to apply for asylum via the legal process.

As yer man on Fox said, this all about the mid-terms, there is nothing to worry about.

Let's hope the hoards of illegals arrive at the border on or just before election day.

More misdirection. They're walking, not taking the bus.

6 ( +10 / -4 )

What is this idiot doing?  This is just pure political posturing that only cheats more of our military members out of a Thanksgiving meal with their families.  Way to look out for the troops Mr Commander in Chief....

By federal law, the military cannot be used in a direct law enforcement role, unless martial law is declared. So this means nothing other than more troops torn away from their families - just so Trump can pool the wool over the eyes of more of his supporters. 

Thank you for pointing out ways rightwing media and propagandists of all sorts, including paid employees of the Internet Research Agency, can so easily influence the intellectually and emotionally vulnerable.

Targeting specific demographic groups, including Trump's 'poorly educated', NRA members, white nationalist organizations among others has been effective for Russians and US ultrarightists . Pizzagate a case in point.. Goebbels and Stalin would have been proud.

Very well stated.

6 ( +10 / -4 )

Are 15,000 troops enough to make Trump fans stop quaking in their boots?

9 ( +13 / -4 )

Trump's inner demons are now the outer workings of a nation that is being led to the cliff.  And when all is but lost, he will give the command to jump.  Unfortunately, the whole world is tethered to this nation and will likely be pulled in along with everyone else.  And all the while, Trump will be perched atop his mountain looking down at the lowly plebes, planning his next grand scheme as to how he can screw th masses over again.

S

6 ( +8 / -2 )

Send the 15 thousand troops to Washington to recapture America, instead!

Seriously, stoking paranoia and fear is playing to the lowest common denominator, these are the actions of a dictator in the making.

Expect more stunts and madness as the mid-terms approach.

8 ( +12 / -4 )

nostromo

“Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” 

those were the days....

US has a chance to show the world that it is still exceptionally great country. But Mr President is entirely missing the opportunity and doing exactly the opposite.

8 ( +9 / -1 )

I like how liberals tell you, shut up! 6-15,000 illegals trying to get in (mostly men) and seeking asylum or possibly (and more likely migrant worker) is really nothing to worry about.

Uh-huh....

-11 ( +4 / -15 )

Trump says a lot of things, few of which pan out. He's said he'll protect those with preexisting conditions while simultaneously eliminating the ACA. He's said he'll give the middle class a 10% tax cut. And now this.

It won't happen.

5 ( +9 / -4 )

6-15,000 illegals trying to get in (mostly men) and seeking asylum or possibly (and more likely migrant worker) is really nothing to worry about.

Except that it's not "6-15,000" people. The group started with about 5K, and is already down to about 3.5K. They're shedding people by the day, and will reach the US border in 2-3 months with probably less than 1K.

But please, keep hiding under your bed in abject fear, much like Cadet Bonespurs does.

8 ( +11 / -3 )

To be honest, I don’t see the point in arguing against this. It’s not a bad strategy - showing these caravans they will be stopped will cause others not to try in the future. It’s not the worst use of money, and much better than a wall. The democrats should just sit back and let this happen without saying much.

6 ( +8 / -2 )

Except that it's not "6-15,000" people. The group started with about 5K, and is already down to about 3.5K. They're shedding people by the day, and will reach the US border in 2-3 months with probably less than 1K. 

But please, keep hiding under your bed in abject fear, much like Cadet Bonespurs does.

Oh, really and according to whom? Don Lemon? Anderson Cooper?

-10 ( +3 / -13 )

I wish he cared as much about tackling domestic terrorism. Things are so out of hand!

4 ( +7 / -3 )

Having this fool in the White House has consequences.

7 ( +11 / -4 )

bass4funk

I like how liberals tell you, shut up! 6-15,000 illegals trying to get in (mostly men) and seeking asylum or possibly (and more likely migrant worker) is really nothing to worry about.

Migration has been overwhelmingly good for America. They are the foundation of America today. When it comes to dealing with human migration, legal/illegal argument is superficial; all you need is to pass a law to change the status for one or the other. Laws are created for the people, not the other way around.

10 ( +12 / -2 )

Oh, really and according to whom? Don Lemon? Anderson Cooper?

Why do you think people watch news for children? Is it because you watch news for children from the right?

Don’t judge everyone by your standards.

6 ( +9 / -3 )

Migration has been overwhelmingly good for America. 

Yes, legally, I agree with you 110%

When it comes to dealing with human migration, legal/illegal argument is superficial; 

Illegal immigration is not superficial, it is a very, very serious issue on so many levels, we don't know these people, Mexico themselves and NOT the US warned that there are some very extreme violent criminals embedded within this caravan.

all you need is to pass a law to change the status for one or the other. Laws are created for the people, not the other way around.

Yes and again I agree, so they can wait in tent city until their day in court, they need to wait patiently especially if they want to cut in line.

-9 ( +2 / -11 )

Trump today: 

"As far as the caravan is concerned, our military is out ... We'll go up to anywhere between 10 and 15,000 military personnel, on top of Border Patrol, ICE and everybody else at the border," Trump told reporters at the White House.

Trump tomorrow:

“I’ve seen these people in the caravan, and I have to tell you, I have no proof, but they are rapists – they may not be from Mexico, but they’re rapists…”

Next day:

“I said before that there were Middle Eastern terrorists included in this caravan, I have no proof but I believe the terrorist groups AQ, ISIS, JI, MB, and FUBAR are included in the group…believe me, believe me…”

Next day:

“I have no proof, but Informed people tell, me, and I mean very informed, that President Obama is in disguise as a 12 year old girl and leading this caravan – it’s true, It’s true…. “

Next day:

“I have good intel (but no proof), that there are extraterrestrials hidden in this caravan, yes Martians who want to invade our country…little green men…absolutely true…. “

13 ( +15 / -2 )

Why do you think people watch news for children?

Because liberals aren't matured?

Don’t judge everyone by your standards.

I don't. I judge liberals and these pundits by their own childish behavior

-12 ( +2 / -14 )

I am not a Trump supporter (I am staunchly against him) and I am not paranoid. I like to look at this issue pragmatically. It is a very complex issue.

If these folks are truly deserving of refugee status then they should have a due process to determine if they are eligible for refugee status. If they are then the U.S. should offer this based on a clear and present danger to their well being. If they are not eligible they should be asked to return to their country of origin and follow the procedures and law (as currently on the books) to enter the United States.

What I find very interesting is that Mexico has offered to take in some of these people, give them refugee status and benefits, and the majority refused (link below). It does seem around 1,700 took Mexico up on this offer and If the intention is truly to escape the oppressive regime they came from I would think the majority of these folks would follow suit and take Mexico up on this opportunity as well. (I have no idea why the majority refused...)

https://www.thisisinsider.com/caravan-turns-down-mexico-offer-marches-to-us-border-2018-10

In the end, the U.S. should state the intention to follow the lead of Canada on this issue who has set a goal of increasing deportations by 35%:

https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/cbsa-deportations-border-removals-1.4873169

Perhaps Trump is throwing political meat to his followers and potential followers with this issue. This is standard political activity. Agree with him or not he is doing what he said he would do (so this is not at all surprising).

This issue needs to be resolved one way or another. Is the EU example the right path to follow for North America? It is a tough call as there are positive and negative arguments on both sides.

2 ( +5 / -3 )

lincolnman - Trump tomorrow:

Next day:

Next day:

Next day:

You are actually "quoting" something that Trump hasn't said yet. Seriously?

-7 ( +1 / -8 )

Trump has to make a strong statement here to discourage further caravans from attempting the journey. Why? Because they're not going to the US to take part, they're going to take over.

Why else were some of them men (and it's mostly men in this "caravan") carrying the flags of their countries? If they're so proud of their country, they'd stay and make it better.

Why were some of them burning American flags with swastikas drawn on them?

Because they hate Trump and his supporters. They think Trump is a Nazi and they want an Aztlan-style reconquista of the American southwest. Large portions of disaffected Latinos feel that land was stolen from them because it once belonged to Mexico. Never mind those pesky Native Americans. If the land were to go back to anyone, it wouldn't be Mexicans or Hispanics. These are the same losers who vote socialist because they're envious of actual successful people.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Toasted Heretic - It's not an invasion, they are not illegal, most are intending to apply for asylum via the legal process.

They have already invaded Mexico illegally.

Who told you that they "intend" to apply for asylum via the legal process?

If they had actually intended to apply via the legal process, they would have done so BEFORE leaving their own countries.

Illegal aliens are illegal aliens, regardless of which country they chose to invade.

-8 ( +1 / -9 )

Donald J Trump is the greatest president in American history. These invaders will be stopped.

“Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” 

Yeah, we have a $20 trillion deficit thanks mainly to the last 2 administrations.

-14 ( +2 / -16 )

@Serrano - I imagine you are including the current administration? Or are you referring to Obama and Bush?

It appears to me (and backed up by facts) that the Trump administration is racking up some very high deficits. You can say alot about Trump but he is NOT a fiscal conservative. Thus the spending involved with this move is a valid point.

10 ( +10 / -0 )

Bass: warned that there are some very extreme violent criminals embedded within this caravan.

You sound pretty scared. Don't be. Other stronger men will protect you.

10 ( +10 / -0 )

Feel free to continue to use the degrading language of "hordes" and "illegals" to dehumanized these people

Everywhere else on the planet, they are called what they are - illegal immigrants.

Its not about dehumanizing people, its about behind honest and not trying to obfuscate the truth with misleading language which the American left have been doing for decades.

Nobody is fooled.

I have no problem with refugees or immigrants, they just need to go through the proper process and that takes time.

-9 ( +0 / -9 )

You are actually "quoting" something that Trump hasn't said yet. Seriously?

You guys constantly argue with the liberals you make up instead of real ones, so I'm not sure what your issue is.

6 ( +7 / -1 )

arrestpaulToday 11:21 am JST

They have already invaded Mexico illegally.

There are no reports of an invasion of Mexico being undertaken. No towns have fallen, no deaths or captures of Mexican citizens and no attempt to over throw the government of Mexico by the "refugee caravan" from Guatemala.

Clearly you do not understand the meaning of the word "Invasion". The correct phrase would be:-

"They have already entered Mexico illegally" but note that Mexico has not charged anyone for illegal entry at this point.

8 ( +8 / -0 )

The screeching from conservatives on this sight demonstrates how full of fear they are. Trump preys on ignorance to create irrational fear and it clearly works.

How does it feel to becsi easily manipulated?

9 ( +9 / -0 )

SerranoToday 11:28 am JST

Donald J Trump is the greatest president in American history. These invaders will be stopped.

Someone wake this man up, he is having a nightmare!!

Relax, there are no "invaders". Donald J Trump is America's worst EVER President!

10 ( +11 / -1 )

Its not about dehumanizing people, its about behind honest and not trying to obfuscate the truth with misleading language which the American left have been doing for decades.

If it is about being honest and not trying to obfuscate, people would use the correct terminology found in the Immigration and Nationality Act: undocumented immigrants. People cannot be illegal, only actions can, which means using the term "illegal immigrant" is incorrrxt and only to dehumanized.

Keep swinging and you may just hit something. Or, do a little research to ensure you hit something on the first swing.

-2 ( +1 / -3 )

The screeching from conservatives on this sight demonstrates how full of fear they are. Trump preys on ignorance to create irrational fear and it clearly works.

There is no fear. There is a desire to have a border and actually enforce it like a normal country.

What is so hard about that to understand? If it was anywhere else on the planet it would be considered entirely normal and reasonable. Absolutely standard practice.

-13 ( +0 / -13 )

arrestpaulToday 11:21 am JST

They have already invaded Mexico illegally.

There are no reports of an invasion of Mexico being undertaken. No towns have fallen, no deaths or captures of Mexican citizens and no attempt to over throw the government of Mexico by the "refugee caravan" from Guatemala.

Clearly you do not understand the meaning of the word "Invasion". The correct phrase would be:-

"They have already entered Mexico illegally" but note that Mexico has not charged anyone for illegal entry at this point.

It seems people are ignoring the fact that Mexico has offered refugee status to this caravan and over 1,500 have taken Mexico up on the offer. To me it seems that from the government of Mexico's perception calling this an invasion of Mexico or illegal entry for that matter seems to be a moot point.

5 ( +5 / -0 )

If it is about being honest and not trying to obfuscate, people would use the correct terminology found in the Immigration and Nationality Act: undocumented immigrants. People cannot be illegal, only actions can, which means using the term "illegal immigrant" is incorrrxt and only to dehumanized.

If you cross the border without authorization, you are illegal. End of.

Do you think people honestly see people that do that as "undocumented" or "illegal"?

Maybe some in the U.S see it as undocumented

The other 8.9 billion people on the planet see it as illegal.

-4 ( +1 / -5 )

@Matt

I have no problem with refugees or immigrants, they just need to go through the proper process and that takes time.

I agree with you that immigrants should go through the proper process, being application while at home.

For refugees it is often a matter of life and death that they leave home. Some fear is imagined and some actual but either way their choice is simple. Life or death. Refugees also have a process to go through to get visa's or citizenship that is different to immigrants. They are not the same. If this caravan is mixed they will need to figure out the immigrants from the refugees and handle each group appropriately.

5 ( +5 / -0 )

The other 8.9 billion people on the planet see it as illegal.

Why do Trump cultists have such difficulty with accurate numbers?

End of.

The last resort of a person who doesn't like discussion. You've gone downhill this year fella.

9 ( +9 / -0 )

For refugees it is often a matter of life and death that they leave home. Some fear is imagined and some actual but either way their choice is simple. Life or death. Refugees also have a process to go through to get visa's or citizenship that is different to immigrants. They are not the same. If this caravan is mixed they will need to figure out the immigrants from the refugees and handle each group appropriately.

Exactly.

7 ( +8 / -1 )

There is no fear. There is a desire to have a border and actually enforce it like a normal country.

We have a border and it is protected. This is purely fear driven politics.

If you cross the border without authorization, you are illegal. End of.

Nope. You are undocumented. Another swing, another miss.

Do you think people honestly see people that do that as "undocumented" or "illegal"?

Only people that are educated and not driven by unfounded fears.

7 ( +7 / -0 )

The other 8.9 billion people on the planet see it as illegal.

Looks like seeing people who aren’t there isn’t only a problem for Trump.

Perhaps extra numbers are illegal extra terrestrials.

Build a wall! Oh, hang on..

8 ( +8 / -0 )

For refugees it is often a matter of life and death that they leave home. Some fear is imagined and some actual but either way their choice is simple. Life or death. Refugees also have a process to go through to get visa's or citizenship that is different to immigrants. They are not the same. If this caravan is mixed they will need to figure out the immigrants from the refugees and handle each group appropriately.

Seems pretty reasonable, but I would add that I don't think anybody should be allowed into the country until background checks to the greatest extent possible are completed, which is not always easy to do. Australia has had a hell of time checking the histories of some refugee claimants, that's why many spend a long time in refugee camps. Not always the case, but a good percentage of the time. Many come from countries who's governments are nigh on useless, like Afghanistan.

There are no easy solutions. Seems to me that this tent city Trump is talking about is the first sign that refugee camps will be setup along the U.S border. If they are going to do that, they need to spend a lot of money making it livable. Tents aren't good enough.

No easy answers. But the answer cannot be we let in anyone with no background check and no idea about their character. That is a recipe for serious problems.

-4 ( +3 / -7 )

The other 8.9 billion people on the planet see it as illegal.

This demonstrates nicely the real issue with conservatives: they don't care about accuracy. There are only 7.7 billion people on the planet, so there can't be 8.9 billion people that see anything.

It's the same with labeling people as "illegal" when people can't be illegal and the law doesn't use that term.

8 ( +9 / -1 )

No easy answers. But the answer cannot be we let in anyone with no background check and no idea about their character. That is a recipe for serious problems.

And nobody is claiming this is the answer.

4 ( +5 / -1 )

No easy answers. But the answer cannot be we let in anyone with no background check and no idea about their character. That is a recipe for serious problems.

There are rarely easy answers for issues like this. But there is a difference to letting people cross a border and remain in "camps" until they are processed to determine a correct status, like refugee or immigrant or anything else. Then providing options to the people. Immigrants should return home and apply through documented processes in place. Refugees can get limited visa's, working visa's either temporary or long term or anything in between. the US can ask other countries to help out and accept some of them (assuming Trump can find a friend). There are many options open that can help those in genuine need without getting scared or breaking the budget to do it.

5 ( +5 / -0 )

If you cross the border without authorization, you are illegal. End of.

Yes. We know this. They know this. The question is how to deal with it, and sending the military, which has no ability to apprehend, while not addressing to problems in the countries these migrants are fleeing - in fact, Trump is pulling back - is no solution.

8 ( +8 / -0 )

Nope. You are undocumented. Another swing, another miss.

Lets take a poll shall we. See if Americans think these people are undocumented or illegal.

Personally, I am confident.

While not addressing to problems in the countries these migrants are fleeing - in fact, Trump is pulling back - is no solution.

It is no long term solution, true. Helping these countries is not so straight forward either. They are often corrupt beyond belief. And the U.S cannot afford any more military adventures that aren't absolutely necessary. You have government debt to GDP at 105% and Afghanistan and Syria should have tought the U.S some very useful lessons.

A bloodless coup, is that an option? There is talk that Brazils new President might turn a blind eye if America was too initiate something but its so incredibly risky.

Certainly reinforcing borders are doable. The U.S should at the very least start working with Mexico on their border to the south.

The only long term viable solution are stable governments, stable institutions and economic growth. That works every time. The U.S could try to convene a broad alliance in the America's for action.

-8 ( +2 / -10 )

Lets take a poll shall we. See if Americans think these people are undocumented or illegal.

All the pill would demonstrate is the number of inaccurate people. Polls don't determine the meanings of words.

4 ( +5 / -1 )

Matt:. Its not about dehumanizing people

Why did Trump tell his base that some of them are Middle Easterners?

9 ( +9 / -0 )

All the pill would demonstrate is the number of inaccurate people. Polls don't determine the meanings of words.

Scared of a poll outcome? Every time a conservative government is elected in the West, there response is not to respect the will of the people but scream and shout blue murder.

You are not liberals. That is absolutely certain.

Why did Trump tell his base that some of them are Middle Easterners?

Because he is clueless? I'm not an acolyte of Trump. He may be right that there are MS-13 members among them or other equally vicious people. This is why you need strong background checks.

There are only two broad areas in which I am in genuine agreement with Trumps polices and that is his current stance against China on trade and espionage and his desire to see NATO lift defense spending. In many other areas, especially environmental, I am polar opposites.

-6 ( +0 / -6 )

Where's the Wall?  He is just building a human wall by sending the troops.  What happens if the "caravan" charges the troops?  They will be ordered to gun them down?

3 ( +3 / -0 )

Because he is clueless? 

So you have no idea why he said that to his base.

6 ( +6 / -0 )

Posse Comitatus Act states the US president cannot use the militrary for domestic police actions. Not even the Supreme Court will back him.

USA Laws don't matter when the entire government ignores the law. 25th amendment too. Who is actually around capable of enforcement?

Trumpkins only has a week left of power, hopefully this is the most he does

6 ( +6 / -0 )

Every time a conservative government is elected in the West, there response is not to respect the will of the people but scream and shout blue murder.

I’m from the UK which I think is regarded as part of the west.

I don’t recall people screaming blue murder when the Tories were elected in 2015.

8 ( +9 / -1 )

\Why soldiers? Are they going to be expected to shoot at people who run instead of surrendering?

The Republicans are tossing around words like invaders and invasion, which leads one to thinking that they might have something violent in mind.

6 ( +7 / -1 )

Do Americans still understand what the word "humanity" means?  15,000 armed troops to "defend" America from a handful of homeless, hungry and disposed people with nothing but hope driving them on?  What have you become America?  What have you become?

8 ( +9 / -1 )

Trump barks but the caravan moves on.

I thought us evangelicals would welcome their catholic brothers from the south?! Very unchristianlike!

7 ( +8 / -1 )

James Mattis: We don’t do stunts.

Gotta love Gen. Mad Dog!!! Gonna have a MAGA red T-shirt made with that quote printed on it.

-11 ( +1 / -12 )

I suggest our Trump supporting friends take their heads out of Faux News and InfoWars for a second and get a dose of reality – no one wants an open border – that would be ridiculous and a real threat to our national security. Borders are established so sovereign nations can control the flow of people and goods that are permitted entry.

The issue here is how these migrants are viewed and treated. One side, for purely partisan reasons, wants to falsely label them as invaders (mentioned 60 times of Faux News yesterday), disease carriers (another Faux News trope), gang members, drug runners, middle eastern terrorists and any other derogatory name they can think of.  They demonize them because they subscribe to white nationalist views, or as stated before, merely for partisan (get out the vote ) reasons.

The other side sympathizes with the plight of these migrants – that however doesn’t mean they believe they should be granted entry into the US unless they meet our current laws as a refugee or lawful immigrant.  But let’s show them some dignity and respect – these are families fleeing countries where they can find no work, where the government does nothing for them, and where they face violence every day. If they don’t qualify for entry into the US, what can we do from a humanitarian standpoint to help them locate to somewhere that they do qualify for entry?

That’s what our so-called President should be doing – rather than demonizing and sending our military, he should be working with leaders in Central and South America, Mexico and Canada to find credible alternatives to help solve this humanitarian issue. 

But that requires a level of intelligence, government policy experience, maturity and self-confidence that this President clearly lacks...

8 ( +9 / -1 )

The issue here is how these migrants are viewed and treated.

Exactly.

5 ( +6 / -1 )

James Mattis: We don’t do stunts.

Gotta love Gen. Mad Dog!!! Gonna have a MAGA red T-shirt made with that quote printed on it.

Better make it a blue shirt and skip the MAGA - as Trump said, "he's kind of a Democrat actually..."

8 ( +8 / -0 )

Armies should be for self defense only. First time I agree with the orange man.

-7 ( +0 / -7 )

Okay so i've been hearing this being called and invasion over and over again. An invasion. Guys you do know what invasion actually means right? You know, a large mass of people from another country taking over your country. You know, Like Germany did to France in WW2, you know, stuff like that. I'm not so sure you can call this an invasion considering that when the immigrants get to the US border they will apply for citizenship legally

8 ( +8 / -0 )

Scared of a poll outcome?

Nope. My post was quite clear that polls do not determine the definitions of words.

Every time a conservative government is elected in the West, there response is not to respect the will of the people but scream and shout blue murder.

Incorrect. We respect the will of the people. However, we have taken a page out of the conservative playbook and no longer cooperate when a conservative government is elected.

5 ( +5 / -0 )

Better make it a blue shirt and skip the MAGA - as Trump said, "he's kind of a Democrat actually" -- comment

Heh, love it when liberals get trolled by President Trump.

-10 ( +2 / -12 )

Ha-Ha..... I remember when Trump was campaigning all these liberals (above) were saying a Wall was not necessary because illegals crossing the border was at an all time low.

Now, they change tune. Hoping these immigrants will allowed asylum into the US. I’ll bet all these liberal posters (above) ALL have legal status if they are residing in Japan. I rest my case.

Go Trump / Go Pence!!

-10 ( +1 / -11 )

Neither political party wants to be involved with a plan on what to do if the "caravan" makes it to the border and the President still can't come up with a single straight (proven) fact.N o-one wants to get to work together as the one nation the United States of America is.

If they (the caravan) want to come in, then they should apply for a green card and wait to see if it gets approved or not, just like every other single person who does it the legal and the right way.

And if they still insist of going by force and en mass like they're planning on entering the country right now, if things go south then they should be willing to face the consequences (getting arrested, deported, separated from their families, etc.).

-6 ( +0 / -6 )

Better make it a blue shirt and skip the MAGA - as Trump said, "he's kind of a Democrat actually" -- comment

Heh, love it when liberals get trolled by President Trump.

Hey, it's one of the few things I believe that came out of Trump's mouth - I mean, Mattis did say “the President acted like — and had the understanding of — a ‘fifth or sixth grader.’”

Sounds like a Democrat to me...

Besides I don't think Mattis would go for MAGA - "Make Adultery Great Again..."

8 ( +8 / -0 )

Heh, love it when liberals get trolled by President Trump.

Says a lot about Trump supporters.

7 ( +8 / -1 )

@texaggie Heh, love it when liberals get trolled by President Trump.

I imagine that's true. Trolling liberals is one of the two fundamental tenets of Trumpism. The other, of course, is believe whatever he says.

4 ( +5 / -1 )

Trump and the GOP are DESPERATE, Trump so much so that he shocked the Pentagon with his announcement that troops could reach 15K, and they are more than comfortable going on record after Trump speaks saying, "Don't worry... we're not doing that," like you might when correcting a drunk and senile grandpa. Must be some midterms the GOP are about to get slaughtered on since he is focussing all his racism and bigotry to fan the flames or his racist base. And make no mistake, the racists who support him have no qualms in staying that he shares their values. Even those who claim not to be racist, if they support him, they are. Plain and simple.

6 ( +7 / -1 )

@smithinjapan: just because we don't want herds of illiterate people coming into America to "seek a better life" by falsely claiming asylum does not make us racist. Its well documented that more than 50% of these so-called refugees young men. You are the kind of person on this site who likes to put hard working American's money where your mouth is...

-9 ( +1 / -10 )

"Relax, there are no "invaders".

Yeah, let's just relax while we let in anyone who wants to enter our country without knowing who they are. lol

"Donald J Trump is America's worst EVER President!"

Nah, Obama took that title from Jimmy Carter.

Donald J Trump is the first president with with a complete set of balls since Lincoln.

-11 ( +1 / -12 )

"Even those who claim not to be racist, if they support him, they are."

Wow, then that means approx. half of Americans, including over one third of black Americans now are racist! You may want to walk that one back, smith.

-10 ( +2 / -12 )

@smithinjapan: just because we don't want herds of illiterate people coming into America to "seek a better life" by falsely claiming asylum does not make us racist

Vern, Vern, Vern. Nobody is saying that wanting people to go through the correct process for documented entry is racist. We are saying that assuming they are illiterate and describing them as "herds" is racist.

8 ( +8 / -0 )

Its well documented that more than 50% of these so-called refugees young men. You are the kind of person on this site who likes to put hard working American's money where your mouth is...

And the cure for this claim is where? And it matters why?

What American money? What are you trying to imply?

7 ( +7 / -0 )

*cites

4 ( +4 / -0 )

With all these people pushing their way over the border, what's the armed forces going to do - start shooting ? This looks like a disaster simply waiting to happen. Perhaps it would be better to fix the problem at source ?

4 ( +4 / -0 )

Yeah, let's just relax while we let in anyone who wants to enter our country without knowing who they are. lol

That's not happening. Har! Oh my . . .

Donald J Trump is the first president with with a complete set of balls

Crass.

since Lincoln.

Ah yes, the most progressive president since the republicans were the modern day democrats and the democrats the modern day republicans.

5 ( +6 / -1 )

With all these people pushing their way over the border, what's the armed forces going to do - start shooting ? This looks like a disaster simply waiting to happen.

There's no denying this.

> Perhaps it would be better to fix the problem at source ?

More so when you are complicit in creating the source of the problem.

6 ( +6 / -0 )

It’s a stunt for the midterms. Clearly, obviously, transparently.

The dwindling group is hundreds of miles away, weeks and weeks away. Most will apply for asylum (which the US has an international obligation to receive - the application that is; for the purposely obtuse), some will try to enter illegally (they should be prevented, caught and deported). If needed, they don’t seem to be needed now.

In the meantime, the troops dispatched are being used as a political prop for MAGA midterm campaigning, at a cost to the taxpayer, military readiness.

If Democrats take the House they should open an investigation as to how the determination troops were needed came about; request from ICE / Border or from the WH?

8 ( +8 / -0 )

Donald J Trump is the first president with with a complete set of balls since Lincoln.

I see you've read Stormy Daniels book...she has other descriptions that are not so flattering...

7 ( +8 / -1 )

We have a border and it is protected. This is purely fear driven politics.

Then people wouldn’t be pouring in. Ask Israel, walls work wonders.

Nope. You are undocumented. Another swing, another miss.

Illegal is still illegal.

Only people that are educated and not driven by unfounded fears.

Ask any of these liberal politicians with their big walls and giant mansions like Pelosi if they are so willing to House as many people as possible.

-13 ( +1 / -14 )

Trump and the GOP are DESPERATE, Trump so much so that he shocked the Pentagon with his announcement that troops could reach 15K, and they are more than comfortable going on record after Trump speaks saying, "Don't worry... we're not doing that," like you might when correcting a drunk and senile grandpa.

Schumer and Pelosi come to mind....

Must be some midterms the GOP are about to get slaughtered

Could be, but as long as they don’t get the Senate, I’m very, very cool with that.

on since he is focussing all his racism and bigotry to fan the flames or his racist base.

How is he racist with Jewish kids and grandkids and is pro Israel, THE most PRO ISRAEL President in US history.?

And make no mistake, the racists who support him have no qualms in staying that he shares their values. Even those who claim not to be racist, if they support him, they are. Plain and simple.

But Democrats and their racist policies are quite ok, right?

-10 ( +1 / -11 )

"Relax, there are no "invaders".

Yeah, let's just relax while we let in anyone who wants to enter our country without knowing who they are. lol

They can be held for processing to determine their status after crossing the border. You think if they would be allowed to enter they would just go on their merry way?

"Donald J Trump is America's worst EVER President!"

Nah, Obama took that title from Jimmy Carter.

Donald J Trump is the first president with with a complete set of balls since Lincoln.

You might find Donald's stones with high res magnification but he remains the worst EVER President of America and world history will note this as a fact.

6 ( +7 / -1 )

Donald J Trump is the first president with with a complete set of balls since Lincoln

huh, so your undying loyalty and faith in Dubya had an expiration date. Will you bail on Trump too?

4 ( +5 / -1 )

just because we don't want herds of illiterate people coming into America to "seek a better life" by falsely claiming asylum does not make us racist. Its well documented that more than 50% of these so-called refugees young men.

It may not make you racist, sure. But posting comments that are false, makes you a purveyor of fabrication.

Mankind is nomadic by nature. And mankind has had countless wars, famines and internecine strife since day one. People will move about, and this is what made America great. Those who came from nothing and gave to America. Those who braved long distances and danger, leaving everything behind.

For a while it seemed the US was a beacon of light. Not so anymore.

Trump's lies and those who seek to promote falsehoods are destroying the last remnants of decency in America.

5 ( +6 / -1 )

Trump today: 

"As far as the caravan is concerned, our military is out ... We'll go up to anywhere between 10 and 15,000 military personnel, on top of Border Patrol, ICE and everybody else at the border," Trump told reporters at the White House.

Trump tomorrow;

"I just heard that there are Russians hiding in this caravan, yes actual Russians trying to get into our country and this is a disgrac....errr.....wait a minute, wait a minute, I like Russians and Russians are white, correct? Mattis - let the Russians in but keep all the brown people out, got it?"

5 ( +6 / -1 )

Visiting some of these places can change your perspective. Many of us, if living in similar situations of poverty, constant fear of violence, hopelessness for the future, and no power to effect change, would make exactly the same choice... Any parent who cared about his kids would consider make this dangerous, hard trek.

5 ( +7 / -2 )

gcbelToday  06:13 pm JST

huh, so your undying loyalty and faith in Dubya had an expiration date. Will you bail on Trump too?

Isn't it weird seeing "aggie" and "serrano" rehashing the same tired inflammatory posts they vomited up under GWB albeit thrice removed?

Back then they were globalists cheering on the Swamp and the ballooning deficit.

6 ( +7 / -1 )

They're not even sure if the Pentagon can mobilize 15,000 active troops in time for the border

2 ( +3 / -1 )

Amid your heated discussion, I offer another perspective on why the large numbers. This troop movement is definitely an "important" move for the US not just as a deterrent, support of the border personnel, and to assure peace and order while handling any humanitarian needs such as medical services which the local system will not be able to handle when such a large numbers so come but also for the military and for domestic policy .

Besides what you have all been referring to in the political arena, there is an important practical (pragmatic) aspect to all this.

In this "heated" domestic and international condition where possible "civil war" has been voiced and threats from other countries not just China and Russia or the Islamic nations, there is definite threat from the south. Given that environment, a "test", a survey of the infrastructure and mobility (logistics) of the ground forces within the US was and is in order. If the size of the troops being used is an issue, then this will answer some of that.

Like the naval exercises but instead of having it at military installations or at disaster sites by specialists this would coordinate all of them from different installations/bases to coordinate and move, testing everything from communication to transportation routes within the US. It will also familiarize many with the differences in territories. Many may have Gulf and Afghanistan experience and many may not, but this will give them an opportunity to work within the country.

It will also give first hand data to the military and the administration as to how and where the infrastructures fare and what may be needed to improve, correct or to build new. One of which will be the kind and placement of a wall in those areas. A survey of the border area while testing logistic and military mobility within the country.

That is something Trump also promised. He wants to improve the infrastructure within the US, most of which was primarily destined and built during WWII and modernized during the Vietnam era.

So it serves three purposes.

-6 ( +1 / -7 )

People aren't "pouring in.

As long as we send in the National Guard to make sure, you’re right.

Acts are illegal, not people. Keep dehumanizing others to stoke fear.

Right again, they come in illegally that would be an illegal act to do so on foreign sovereign soil.

There is no need to ask rich people (conservatives used to love them) like pelosi to house anyone. This is simply a deflection by conservatives because they have no substantive retort. Very, very predictable.

Yes, there is a strong need since these people that live in exquisite and elaborate homes with high walls, they want to push their progressive open borders radical policies on the rest of us, so then they should allow these people to tent up in their backyards.

-8 ( +1 / -9 )

It may not make you racist, sure. But posting comments that are false, makes you a purveyor of fabrication.

That goes both ways.

Mankind is nomadic by nature. And mankind has had countless wars, famines and internecine strife since day one.

Back then we didn’t have schools, cars, no restaurants, no hospitals or high rise buildings or even running toilets and your point is.....

People will move about, and this is what made America great. Those who came from nothing and gave to America. Those who braved long distances and danger, leaving everything behind.

Now we have the rule of law to guide us and these people just can’t go and come illegal and whenever they want, time to put the Nomadic DNA back in the bottle.

For a while it seemed the US was a beacon of light. Not so anymore.

Legally, it still is and very much so.

Trump's lies and those who seek to promote falsehoods are destroying the last remnants of decency in America

Actually, Tump is bringing what was becoming the slow lawlessness erosion of the US and is finally bring it back and on track.

-9 ( +1 / -10 )

Actually, Tump is bringing what was becoming the slow lawlessness erosion of the US and is finally bring it back and on track.

To another civil war.

Trump is the epitome of lawlessness, gangsterism and cronyism. He lies, smears and foments unrest.

People are dying because of this tyrant.

History, sadly, will prove this beyond all doubt.

4 ( +5 / -1 )

Actually, Tump is bringing what was becoming the slow lawlessness erosion of the US and is finally bring it back and on track.

Yeah he's doing a fine job, apart from the bombs, mass shootings, corruption, adultery, treachery, protests, nepotism, environmental destruction, hatred, lies, ignorance and golf. But at least the stock market is up...ah!...

6 ( +7 / -1 )

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