Thoughts from Maharrey Head #99: America;s First Immigration Debate

Thoughts from Maharrey Head

In this episode of Thoughts from Maharrey Head, I talk about America's first immigration debate and what it reveals about federal power. To visit the show notes page, click here: http://bit.ly/2tQqjPi Immigration ranks among the most contentious political issues in America today. Debates rage about “pathways to citizenship,” building walls and blocking refugees. But Americans often ignore the most fundamental question – who has power over immigration matters? Arguments over immigration are nothing new. In fact, America’s first major immigration debate happened in 1798 when Congress passed the Alien and Sedition Acts. James Madison weighed in on the issue in his Report of 1800. His arguments reveal a great deal about federal and state power over regulating immigration. In this episode of Thoughts from Maharrey Head, I highlight Madison’s thinking and what it reveals about the power of the federal government.