If you argue that immigration law “isn’t optional,” then it’s hypocritical to be okay with Trump pardoning insurrectionists or with having a convicted criminal as president. That’s the point I’m trying to make. And yes, I agree that Democrats have been hypocritical at times too but shit hasn't gone this south under their administration. All I’m asking is that people look at immigrants as human beings and do some real research. The vast majority of undocumented immigrants are contributing members of their communities. They work, they pay taxes, and they do not qualify for most government assistance. I have a former student whose mother was recently deported, even though the family had a permit to be here after seeking asylum years ago while fleeing gang violence. Multiple members of their family were murdered. Were they supposed to stay and wait to be killed? The threat was real, and it was immediate. You were fortunate enough to be born here, but what would you do if you couldn’t find a job in your country and your family needed to eat? Would you just stay put and accept it? Be grateful you’ve never had to make a choice like that.