Impact of Mexican Presidential Election on U.S. Immigration Policy

Read Susan Gzesh’s insightful analysis of the implications of Mexico’s presidential election on U.S. immigration policy.  Here is the punchline:

Whether Calderon or Lopez-Obrador becomes president of Mexico later this year, US policymakers, immigration advocates, and immigration restrictionists will need to pay attention to the economic, political, and social realities of Mexico. A president that has no strong mandate — a stark contrast to the strong presidencies of the past — and divided Mexican Congress will face real challenges to produce coherent policy initiatives aimed at reducing migration. Activity at the state level in both countries, where the impact of Mexican migration is felt most strongly, will continue despite inaction at the national level — with immigrant integration controversies in US states and debates over economic development in Mexican states. Current cross-border discussions between Mexican and US scholars, legislators, businesspeople, labor unions, and community leaders may help both national governments realize that a migration policy that recognizes the economic, political, and social integration of the two countries is increasingly necessary. As one Mexican government official has put it, “We’re not going away.”

For the entire commentary, click here.

KJ