"I call that de-facto legal status."
"De-facto legal status"???!!!
Ben, that's something that could have been spewed right out of the mouths of Gore, Kennedy, Sharpton, Kerry, or either one of the Clintons.
On the subject of illegal immigration, you sound like a "de-facto" Democrat.
LOL!
It's actually still de facto ILLEGAL status since they are still here illegally.
Someone should post the Mexican government's position and policies on immigration into Mexico.
Illegals have always been given a defacto legal status. If that can make it past the capture zone, arrive at their final destination, get a job, keep their nose clean, and stay in the shadows, they will be allowed to stay. If there are women and children involved, they will be entitled to certain benefits.
If they contribute to society, society will accept or tolerate them.
A surprisingly large number of them go on to become citizens.
There can be an exception to the defacto legal status. During recessions, they are blamed for the recession and taking jobs. Many will call for their deportation.
Once the recession has ended, the economy starts cookin', and workers are needed, all is forgiven, and everyone says "we need more mexicans".
What part of defacto legal status don't you understand?