Thursday, August 28, 2008

Texans Get What they Wished For: a Fence and Privatized Government. And They Aren't Happy?

Strangely absent from the blogospher are the in depth stories seen on “NOW on PBS.” This shortened story about the construction of our southern border fence presents a couple of ideological issues I’ve stressed here on Democurmudgeon: The conservative preoccupation with illegal immigrants, a problem yes, but the unintended consequences of putting up the fence flies in the face of many Texas Republicans. Homeland Security is not only taking property away, but they’re putting peoples farm acreage and homes on the wrong side of the fence, making access for food and medical care impossible to obtain without searches and access to special border gates.

I also found it interesting how their privatization mantra is suddenly used against them at a time when they want answers from their government. Instead of talking to a government representative, they have to meet with a private firm dealing with public complaints, with no obligation to answer questions or provide help.

It’s an old saying, but it fits this situation. “Be careful of what you wish for.”

Here' how NOW described the program: Congress authorized the Secure Fence Act - a multi-billion dollar plan to build hundreds of miles of fencing along the southern border of the United States to stem the flow of undocumented immigrants and provide security from potential terrorism. But what was built to fight illegal immigration has turned into a nightmare for many Americans living along the U.S.-Mexico border. The fence, which will cover less than half of the actual border, inexplicably cuts through the middle of some properties, while leaving others untouched. Many question if it can keep people from sneaking in at all.


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