That's an interesting and thought-provoking question. Since we've been engaging in this discussion, I presume that both of us have been checking the other's posting history to evaluate where we stand on many issues. (Parenthetically, I have to credit you for keeping "Obama’s Loss: Inevitable For Years" up on your personal web page. A lesser man would have scrubbed it by now. Kudos).
As you may have seen, my stance concerning labor unions is nearly as hard-line as that against illegals. I think an argument can be made that RICO laws can be enforced to put them out of business but that's an extreme position and likely impracticable. At the very least, I advocate for Right to Work in all 50 states. So, I'm tough when it comes to unions and those who voluntarily join them.
With that as background, here's my take. I think when push comes to shove, even a union member will come to the aid of America when in peril. In contrast, I think an illegal (even a good one who generally keeps his nose clean), would flee back to his country of origin when the going gets really tough.
And that's why I see the influx of Mexicans so differently from the massive waves of immigrations early in the 20th century. Most of them came from overseas when transportation was still rather primitive by today's standards. The Mexicans who come to America for labor and otherwise steer clear of criminal activity have a safe and easy refuge across the nearby border. So yes, in that sense, I think there's some value (not a lot but some in this case) to be had merely by where one was born. Even a welfare queen or a unionista (is there much of a difference) has the bond of a home country that an illegal doesn't.
Actually, hate to disappoint, but I barely read the posts, much less research the poster. But I have enjoyed our give and take, and appreciate how you present your case.
And FTR, I’m not sure your “push come to shove” analysis is right. These are the same unions who knee jerk join all of the leftist positions on the military, including anti war, pro gay, cut spending etc. This, in addition to their communist socialist economic views.