Sarah Palin on Immigration Republican Governor (AK); 2008 nominee for Vice President

Immigrants want more vocational training & senior assistance

A: I have reached out to all these communities and asked them to identify their needs. Their response has been for more vocational training, senior assistance, ending gang violence, and more state outreach and communication with their communities. One of the key components of my internal campaign is a diversity task force. I turn to them often.

Address jointly with Canada the border security challenges

Alaska's exports to Canada are headed for record highs, based on the federal export numbers for the partial year January through November 2006. Alaska's exports to Canada for that period more than doubled to $441 million compared to the same period in 2005, spurred by $320 million in lead and zinc ore exports.

Took no action on Alaska's "sanctuary cities"

Apparently, this is by design from the highest levels. In fact, a resolution to that effect was passed in the Alaska state legislature in 2003 (before Palin's election): "[Alaska] House Joint Resolution 22--May 2003: Establishes that state agencies and instrumentalities may not use state resources or institutions for the enforcement of federal immigration laws, which are the responsibility of the federal government."

It's not clear whether Gov. Palin has ever weighed in, pro or con, on Alaska's sanctuary policies.

Tightened restrictions on illegal alien's drivers licenses

The measure did not pass into law. In any event, Palin's DMV subsequently tightened the administrative regulations on drivers' licenses, thereby giving rise to a lawsuit by some folks who found the new restrictions inconvenient.

The new restrictions were not, however, enough for at least some members of the legislature, who tried again recently to enact a ban into the statutory law: "Despite two unsuccessful pushes, [a new bill] addresses the rights of illegal immigrants in Alaska: to require applicants to show proof of residency before they can get a driver's license."

OpEd: Palin is sick to death of this immigration nonsense

So, back to the Veepstakes. Sarah Palin: I like her. She's a beautiful woman, but she's also a conservative. Her husband, he's a fisherman. I'm not kidding you, and they go out and fish on the weekends. He's a commercial fisherman. I'm telling you, I think that sells. That sells a lot more than "my friends" and comprehensive immigration reform. And she's not for comprehensive reform, I can tell you that right now. She's sick to death of this immigration nonsense in the United States."

Has not often expressed views on illegal immigration

Never supported Pat Buchanan for president

A: I did wear a button at his book signing, or one of the events. Because see here, a presidential candidate coming to little ol' Wasilla, one year. And we all showed up. It was an honor to see anyone of that stature come to our city.

Supports a path to citizenship, but no amnesty for illegals

A: There is no way that in the US we would roundup every illegal immigrant--there are about 12 million of the illegal immigrants--not only economically is that just an impossibility but that's not a humane way anyway to deal with the issue.

Q: Do you then favor an amnesty for the 12 million undocumented immigrants?

A: No, I do not. Not total amnesty. You know, people have got to follow the rules. We have got to make sure that there is equal opportunity and those who are here legally should be first in line for services being provided and those opportunities that this great country provides.

Q: So you support a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants?

A: I do because I understand why people would want to be in America. To seek the safety and prosperity, the opportunities, the health that is here. It is so important that yes, people follow the rules so that people can be treated equally and fairly in this country.

Illegal immigrants made in God's image, but enforce the law

Being gracious to these immigrants doesn't mean ignoring our laws and the justice they provide for all, especially law abiding immigrants. Many people coming to America are looking for a better life, but breaking the law as a first step on our soil is wrong, and it threatens their safety and ours. There is a better way.