FORUM TOPIC

immigration reform

  • In this Edition

    The latest edition of The Ripon Forum examines the federal effort to strengthen border security in the United States, and why the American people believe the government should be both tough and compassionate in its approach.

  • Security, Stability, and a Smarter Immigration Debate

    Recent polling data reveal a growing and nuanced perspective among American voters — especially Hispanic voters in Texas — toward immigration policy and border security.

  • Securing the Northern Border

    The Minnesota Congressman discusses his work as a member of the Northern Border Caucus and the effort he is leading to shore up security along the 5,525 mile border between the U.S. and Canada.

  • Trump’s Gold Card Will Likely Not Generate Much Revenue

    While the gold card would add a much-needed albeit very expensive path to residency, America would need 2,000 buyers per year to hit $10 billion — less than 1 percent of our budget deficit.

  • The Scale and Impact of Contemporary Immigration

    At the start of 2025, the total legal and illegal immigrant population, or “foreign born” in Census Bureau parlance, is higher now than at any time in our history.

  • The High Cost of “Sanctuary”

    More than one in three Americans live in a state or city that refuses to cooperate with immigration enforcement by the federal government.

  • Should the U.S. Maintain Birthright Citizenship? Yes…

    One of the most troubling consequences of repealing birthright citizenship would be the creation of a stateless underclass within U.S. borders.

  • Should the U.S. Maintain Birthright Citizenship? No…

    Contrary to learned opinion, repealing birthright citizenship does not require a constitutional amendment. It can be done by using section five of the 14th Amendment.

  • Should America Continue to Accept Asylum Seekers? No.

    Today, the U.S. has needlessly made the administration of providing refugee protection confusing by creating two separate paths and processes: An alien overseas applies for refugee protection, while an alien at our border or inside the U.S. applies for asylum.

  • Viewing Border Security as an Ecosystem

    If the number of individuals arrested along our southern border were to form their own city, it would be the fifth largest city in the United States.

  • The Road to Fundamental Immigration Reform

    Congress is on the verge of reforming an immigration system that is 40 years old. An assessment of the legislation, from the politics of the measure to what it will achieve.

  • Immigration Reform: The Challenges Ahead

    The immigration debate is at a fever pitch as the Ripon Forum goes to press. Only a fool would try to predict what will happen next, either in the Senate, which will probably vote this week, or in the skirmishing that could follow if lawmakers then move ahead…