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American workers Quote by Lamar S. Smith

“A massive new guest worker program hurts American workers. ... If a guest worker program were to provide a path to citizenship, we would be rewarding lawbreakers with the greatest honor our country can bestow - citizenship.” quote by Lamar S. Smith
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“A massive new guest worker program hurts American workers. ... If a guest worker program were to provide a path to citizenship, we would be rewarding lawbreakers with the greatest honor our country can bestow - citizenship.”

Lamar S. Smith

About This Quote

Source Speech: Congressional Record, 1995

A guest‑worker program that leads to citizenship rewards illegal behavior and harms domestic labor markets.

In simple terms: Granting citizenship to undocumented workers harms American workers.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize fair immigration and protect local jobs.

Themes

immigration labor justice policy

Mood

cautious thoughtful

Type

policy debate

When to use this quote

  • job fairs
  • policy debates
  • community meetings

Key Concepts

economic impact legal status national security

Questions to Reflect On

  • Should pathways to citizenship be limited?
  • How can we protect workers while aiding migrants?
A Different Perspective

Balancing humanitarian concerns with labor protection is complex.

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