Biden’s Proposal: Is $450,000 Enough Compensation for Separated Families?

Biden’s Proposal: Is $450,000 Enough Compensation for Separated Families?

Introduction

The recent proposal by President Joe Biden to provide $450,000 to families who were separated at the border has sparked intense debate. While many argue that such compensation is justified, others vehemently disagree, arguing that the primary solution should be deportation and a strict enforcement of immigration laws. This article explores the nuances of this debate and presents various perspectives on the proposed compensation.

Public Reactions and Arguments Against the Proposal

The proposal has garnered significant pushback, with many individuals arguing that illegals only deserve deportation back to their home countries. A popular argument is that hardworking citizens who have paid taxes for decades should not have to support illegal immigrants financially. For instance, one commenter stated, "I work hard for my money, I've paid taxes for 60 years towards my SS benefits. Illegals getting ANY SS is a travesty and a crime."

Another common argument is that such compensation is too lenient and should be made less appealing to potential illegal immigrants. The question posed is whether such financial compensation would act as a deterrent. "That will surely discourage them from trying to cross the border illegally," suggests one commenter. "Perhaps Biden should make breaking the laws really worthwhile!"

Compensation as a Form of Justice

To understand the proposed compensation, it is essential to examine a hypothetical scenario. Imagine it is 1993, and Bill Clinton has outlawed Christianity. A family flees to Canada with their children but is separated at the border. The children are placed in kennels, and they endure abuse for four years. When the family returns, they are given a million dollars in compensation. Would this compensation be sufficient to justify the trauma endured by the family?

Robin Hardman, a commentator, asks, 'How happy are you about the million dollars? Is it enough? Would any amount be enough? If you had known before you went to Canada that a tyrant would torture your kids for four years, would you still have gone even if a million dollars was offered in restitution?'

The underlying argument is that the lack of just compensation implies a inadequate response to the suffering endured by these families. Hardman concludes that a sum of $450,000 is insufficient to address the trauma and loss experienced by the separated families. A fair and just response would involve prosecuting those responsible and imposing long-term sentences.

President Biden's Public Statement

President Biden publicly denounced this compensation idea on November 3rd, emphasizing the importance of following the law. He stated, "They came here illegally. They broke the law. Since when do we pay criminals?" This statement highlights the tension between providing compensation and ensuring that illegal immigration is punished appropriately.

Conclusion

The debate over the proposed $450,000 compensation for separated families at the border reveals a complex interplay of principles. Some advocate for strict enforcement of immigration laws and deportation, while others emphasize the need for just and fair compensation for those harmed by the current system. The public discourse continues, with each side presenting compelling arguments rooted in their values and beliefs.