Skip to content

America Quote by Molly Ivins

“Racists seem obsessed by the idea that illegal workers - the hardest-working, poorest people in America - are somehow getting away with something, sneaking goodies that should be for Americans. You can always avoid this problem by having no social services. This is the refreshing Texas model, and…” quote by Molly Ivins
Download Open image
“Racists seem obsessed by the idea that illegal workers - the hardest-working, poorest people in America - are somehow getting away with something, sneaking goodies that should be for Americans. You can always avoid this problem by having no social services. This is the refreshing Texas model, and it works a treat.”

Molly Ivins

About This Quote

Source Speech: Commentary on immigration policy, United States, 1990s

The quote argues that anti‑immigrant sentiment frames undocumented workers as thieves, and suggests eliminating social services as a solution, citing Texas as a model.

In simple terms: It claims immigrants are blamed unfairly and proposes cutting social aid to stop the issue.

Key Takeaway

Consider the ethics and practicality of removing social services.

Themes

immigration politics social policy stereotypes economics

Mood

critical controversial

Type

political opinion

When to use this quote

  • policy debate
  • community organizing
  • public health
  • education funding

Key Concepts

xenophobia welfare economics political rhetoric

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is denying social services a fair way to address immigration concerns?
  • What are the broader impacts of such policies?
A Different Perspective

The solution ignores the needs of vulnerable citizens and may worsen poverty.

3.8 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Molly Ivins

Explore all 260 Molly Ivins quotes

More America quotes

Browse all 20,382 America quotes