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The Congressional Budget Office reports that allowing 2 million illegal immigrants to remain in America will drain taxpayers of $25.9 billion over the next ten years.

Illegal Immigration and "Dreamers"

In the attempt to help illegal immigrants gain lawful American citizenship, the U.S. Senate crafted the DREAM Act earlier in 2017. The DREAM (Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors) Act grants several privileges to those who illegally entered the United States. It also comprises illegal immigrants involved in DACA. Ultimately, the DREAM Act would grant education, foodstamps, Medicaid, and other benefits to DREAMers meeting certain guidelines.

The CBO estimates that a little under 25% of illegal immigrants currently in America shall qualify for the benefits under the DREAM Act. Of the less than 25%, roughly 17% would apply for the program and even less would become American citizens within the next decade. Furthermore, the DREAM Act is expected to engender budget deficit upsurges. If the legislation comes to fruition, Americans can expect to see a $25.9 billion budget deficit hike between 2018 and 2027. This will then result in $0.9 billion net revenue expansion.

Controversy Regarding the DREAM Act and Illegal Immigrants in America

Americans both in favor of or against DREAMers and illegal immigration tend to have very strong opinions. Viewpoints also hold direct links to partisanship. While most progressives and Democrats are likely to favor the DREAM Act, the majority of conservatives and Republicans oppose it. The aforesaid groups each have their beliefs on why they're right and their opposition is wrong.

Most left wingers support DACA and the DREAM Act. In their opinion, illegal immigrants will contribute to America by working. Furthermore, Democrats often employ the emotional appeal, stating that children who were brought to the U.S. illegally by their parents are not at fault.

However, most conservatives have a different viewpoint. As stated by the Congressional Budget Office, illegal immigrants will cost American taxpayers billions of dollars over the next decade. Moreover, as Republicans often note, there are also American dreamers. Should we not put our own citizens first, question many people. At a time where the national debt is through the roof, perhaps now is not the time to take on another bill, note critics of the DREAM Act.