Governor’s convention talking immigration outside of chamber

By Marcus Atkinson

Hispanicohio.com editor

As the Governor’s meet in Boston they are talking health care, they are talking jobs, but one thing they are not talking is immigration.  Most people following the immigration issue understand the opponent’s side but what exactly are those in favor of the law saying?

On the cusp of July 29, and after the dawn of a federal lawsuit, Arizona Gov. Brewer is standing strong on her beliefs; a stronger immigration law is for the safety and economic viability of her state.

“They do understand the problems that we face,” said Brewer, a Republican. “People want the federal government to do their job, and if they won’t do it, the states will do it.”

Popular musical acts such as Shakira has boycotted Arizona, and Major League Baseball is having discussions about moving next year’s All-Star game from Arizona to a different site, thus missing out on millions of dollars.

“I’m an elected official and have been for 28 years and I’ve never called on anyone to boycott any city or any state. I think it really harms the people that are out there trying to do work and trying to do their jobs,” said brewer.

Some people believe Brewer and others like her are outright racist. Groups opposed to the Arizona measure organized a march on the convention site. The Washington-based ANSWER Coalition expected more than 1,000 to attend, but only several hundred gathered for the rally. Heavy rain further diminished the turnout.

 Spokeswoman for the pro-immigrant ANSWER Coalition, Sarah Sloan said has been documented saying, “Jan Brewer is racist and bigoted.  Our protest represents the majority sentiment in this country.”

A Fox News poll showed that by a 2-1 margin, people would prefer a law in their state similar to SB1070 immigration law that Arizona just passed. 65% of people said that they want police to question people they think may be in the country illegally.

Despite these statistics Ohio, like in many other issues are greatly divided, particularly by region.  Southern Ohio seems to learn toward a law similar to Arizona’s, and as one moves north and into more urban populations, the constituency becomes against such a bill. 

Gov. Strickland has come on record stating if a bill such as Arizona ever reaches his desk, he will veto it.

Examiner.com contributed to this story