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* Gov. Bruce Rauner…
“Our nation and our state have a shared history of providing safe haven for those displaced by conflict, but the news surrounding the Paris terror attacks reminds us of the all-too-real security threats facing America. We must find a way to balance our tradition as a state welcoming of refugees while ensuring the safety and security of our citizens. Therefore, the state of Illinois will temporarily suspend accepting new Syrian refugees and consider all of our legal options pending a full review of our country’s acceptance and security processes by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.”
On the one hand, I can see the worry about terrorists slipping in with the refugees.
On the other hand, however, those refugees are leaving Syria to flee those very same terrorists.
Ugh.
…Adding… We’re not talking big numbers. From September…
So far in 2015, 94 refugees from Syria have been resettled in Illinois, 62 of them in Chicago, according to data from the Refugee Processing Center, operated by the U.S. State Department. That’s about three times the placements in all of last year, with 24 Syrian refugees resettled in Illinois, 18 of which were in Chicago. Those numbers, though, don’t include Syrians seeking asylum, a separate process.
…Adding More… According to CBS, other Republican governors have done the same, including in Indiana, Michigan and Alabama.
…Adding Still More… A state by state look is here.
*** UPDATE 1 *** I just had a long conversation with someone in the administration. I think people on both sides should probably stand down. The key word here is “temporarily.” They just want to pause this while they get some more assurances from the federal government about who is being brought in, what their backgrounds really are, etc.
Also, they’re very sensitive to the fact that some of these refugees are Christians fleeing radical Islamic tyranny - which some of the far right commenters here and elsewhere should probably try to consider.
Again, it’s a pause, not a full stop.
…Adding… TPM…
To be clear, states still retain the power to deny their own resources to the federal government, so they could potentially make settlement of refugees more difficult than it would be if the states cooperated. Nevertheless, an act of Congress — the Refugee Act of 1980 — has given Obama broad discretion to allow refugees to be admitted into the United States.
And that’s what we’re looking at here - state IDHS resources.
*** UPDATE 2 *** Sen. Mark Kirk vs. Congressman Tammy Duckworth in Crain’s…
“The Director of National Intelligence James Clapper and FBI Director James Comey have cautioned that terrorist infiltration of Syrian refugees is possible based on our limited ability (to) screen all Syrian refugees,” Kirk said in a statement. “No refugee related to the Syrian crisis should be admitted to the United States unless the (Obama) administration can guarantee, with 100 percent assurance, that they are not members, supporters or sympathizers of ISIS.” […]
“We should differentiate between the refugee crisis and those who do the work of ISIS,” [Duckworth] told reporters, noting that her northwest suburban district now is home to 700 refugees. U.S. security personnel know what they are doing, she continued, noting that 20 percent of them are children. “If we don’t deal with the refugee crisis, some of those kids will grow up to be terrorists,” she said.
Duckworth said she “could not imagine” taking her infant daughter, Abigail, packing up their things, and walking across the country to a dingy in the ocean “because that’s safer” than staying home.
“We are better than that as a nation,” she said, noting that she’s supported a plan to allow up to 200,000 to come to America. “We should keep the refugees.”
*** UPDATE 3 *** US Senate candidate Andrea Zopp…
“I believe that this is a humanitarian crisis, and we can’t turn our back on our values. With over a decade of experience in law enforcement, I know better than most that we need to do the proper background checks, but banning Syrian refugees from Illinois makes no sense. This is another example of Governor Rauner ignoring those in need.”
posted by Rich Miller
Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:02 pm
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good idea
Comment by John A Logan Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:04 pm
I can say that I am in strong agreement with the Governor on this issue..
Comment by Not Rich Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:05 pm
I didn’t realize a state has any legal basis to accept or reject a refugee. Isn’t this in the complete province of the federal government?
Comment by phocion Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:06 pm
This is stupid. The state is losing population, the only thing that has kept it from being a freefall is immigration. We need more people.
Comment by Tone Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:06 pm
Have any other U.S. states made similar decisions?
Comment by Because I said so... Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:07 pm
GO CUBS: “shame on Rauner” ..You do know that we are getting ZERO information from the Syrian government about who is coming here?
Comment by Not Rich Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:09 pm
You can NOT just shut everything down regarding refugees without having a clear idea what a second step is. It’s not the idea that Rauner is following suit with Michigan, Texas, and Alabama, but what is concerning is a lack of understanding “what’s next” to safety & humanity, together.
It’s more than fair to ask “what is the next step” as governors in the United States feel they are trying to be thoughtful as to safety of their citizens in their states, but if Florida, or Oregon, or Maine follows the national guidelines, will governors in Illinois, Texas, Alabama move to have these states borders secured from… Missouri… Louisiana… Kansas?
What are the rules?
Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:09 pm
Reasonable: “pending a full review of our country’s acceptance and security processes by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.”
Comment by NIU Grad Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:09 pm
Kinda like refusing to accept health workers who may have had contact with ebola patients? I think this is an overreaction.
Comment by Wensicia Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:09 pm
Number of refugees that have committed an attack on American soil: 0
Number of angry white dudes that have committed an attack on American soil: a lot
Is Rauner going to ban angry white dudes from IL too?
Comment by AlabamaShake Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:11 pm
I’m in agreement with the Gov. as well. The world is now a dangerous place. The rules have changed. I consider myself a very compassionate person but our government is obligated to protect its citizens first and foremost. It appears to simply be too difficult to vet the refugees.
Comment by Cubs in '16 Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:11 pm
A temporary halt is logical at the moment, just as other governors and foreign leaders have agreed.
Comment by Anonymous Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:12 pm
Bruce doesn’t have a social agenda.
Think he was wearing his Carhartt pander suit when he thought this up?
Bigger threat to Illinois: Syrian Refugees or Incompetent Governance?
Comment by LizPhairTax Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:12 pm
I take it the “state won’t be accepting” any French of Belgians citizens, either. Or British citizens, because they’ve been known to commit terrorist acts. And we know all about those Saudis and Egyptians from 9/11…..
How does this work, anyway? Does the governor actually have any authority or power in this area, or is he just jumping on the hysterical bandwagon for publicity purposes?
Way to elevate a bunch of murderous nihilistic punk losers.
Not exactly the spirit that won the west.
Comment by wordslinger Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:12 pm
Deuteronomy 15:11English Standard Version (ESV)
11 For there will never cease to be poor in the land. Therefore I command you, ‘You shall open wide your hand to your brother, to the needy and to the poor, in your land.’
Comment by Someone you should know Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:13 pm
So regardless of the evidence before your very eyes that radical jihadists posed as refugees and carried out the slaughter of 130 people in France you play the ‘angry white dude’ card? And yes there are at least four states now that are refusing refugees. Google it…or keep your head in the sand.
Comment by hot chocolate Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:14 pm
Most sensible thing the RAUN Man has done yet. By the way,” hang in there Paris!”
Comment by Blue dog dem Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:15 pm
I read about the other states this morning, and I thought, “it’s a good thing we don’t have a reactionary Governor acting to politicize a tragedy.”
Oops…
Comment by UISer Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:15 pm
== I take it the “state won’t be accepting” any French of Belgians citizens, either. Or British citizens, because they’ve been known to commit terrorist acts. And we know all about those Saudis and Egyptians from 9/11… ==
Well said, Wordslinger.
Comment by thunderspirit Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:15 pm
Umm . . Jesus was a refugee from Herod. He parents fled with him to Egypt. Whatsoever you do to the least of these . . .
Just keep calling yourselves the “Christian” right, but remember, God is not mocked.
Comment by History Prof Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:17 pm
Statistics from 2001 to 2013 - source CDC
Deaths due to terrorist - 3,380
Death by firearms - 406,496
While it may placate some, are these governors really protecting us?
Pandering to emotions but not really protecting us from bigger threats.
Comment by RetiredStateEmployee Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:19 pm
This raises two questions.
On a national level, we should take another look at the issue. Looks like one person got to France after getting into Greece as a refuge.
However, on the state level, this looks like GOP pandering. Initially, the state does not get to decide who gets through immigration.
Further, until we set up guards at Illinois borders, the plan is ridiculous.
Comment by Gooner Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:19 pm
In this particular case, the Governor is being reasonable, especially since ISIS today threatened Washington D.C. with similar attacks. Once American soil is soiled with blood, certain commenters here today will change their tune I’m sure.
With much respect to OW, there are no rules in love and war, and there are no bounds that evil persons will do to inflict harm on others, especially when their ideology allows suicidal martyrs glory.
Comment by Captain Illini Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:19 pm
“This tragedy clearly demonstrates why everyone should embrace my opinion an an entirely unrelated topic.”
Tom Tomorrow.
Comment by 47th Ward Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:20 pm
*Illinois will temporarily suspend* = directly from the release.
Those opposed to this need to chill. We at least need to better understand the screening details before moving forward.
smart and measured move by the Governor.
Comment by Anon2U Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:21 pm
Isn’t this a federal decision. The feds get to decide who immigrates legally. Can a state prohibit entry to a legal immigrant? How?
I would guess that the screening process is already pretty rigorous. And after Paris, it will probably become more so.
Comment by Cassandra Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:21 pm
The Atlantic has one of the best pieces out there of “what ISIS really wants.” Published in March, it is a must-read for anyone who wants to better understand what is happening. http://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2015/03/what-isis-really-wants/384980/
Comment by Harry Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:21 pm
No refugees until my Turnaround Agenda is passed.
Comment by Almost the Weekend Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:24 pm
the clear solution here is to create a “safe zone” with an international military force in Northern Iraq and Eastern Syria. Better to fight the battle there than in Paris, London, Berlin and Chicago.
Comment by Arizona Bob Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:25 pm
Even ignoring the recent events, I have no idea why we are taking in refugees when we don’t have the resources and/or competence to care for and protect our own residents, especially in Chicago.
When you add in the fact that we likely vet these folks like Greece/France vet them, and given the potential ramifications of that oversight, it’s a fairly simple, albeit sad, decision.
Comment by Shoe Searer Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:26 pm
makes sense to me
Comment by common_sense Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:28 pm
If you’re more afraid of a terrorist attack than a heart attack, you’ve been duped.
Comment by Gruntled University Employee Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:32 pm
“In the beginning of a change, the patriot is a scarce man, and brave, and hated and scorned.
When his cause succeeds, the timid join him, for then it costs nothing to be a Patriot”. Mark Twain
Good for you Governor!
Comment by Capt. Jack Wagon Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:32 pm
I think we also should deport ALL Irish, since a FEW of them are known terrorists.
Comment by ChiTownSeven Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:33 pm
There is no vetting process and most of them are young males. One of the Paris terrorst was a refugee. The Arab country’s are not taking them. Any rd flags here? I seldom agree with Rauner but this time he’s 00% right
Comment by Just a squirrel trying to get a nut Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:33 pm
I don’t like it, but I understand.
Comment by VanillaMan Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:33 pm
Gee, and I thought all the terrorists slipped in with those Central American kids the Ususal Suspects were hysterical about last year.
Or the Ebola nurses, or something.
Geez, make these punks out to be 10 feet tall by running scared and you’re giving them just what they want.
Stick both middle fingers out by living up to your values and you expose them for the losers they are.
Comment by wordslinger Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:34 pm
Although we probably shouldn’t laugh at this, still, it is sort of amusing that the Governor of Alabama is banning immigration.
Sure, because there are a lot of high profile targets in Alabama.
Comment by Gooner Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:37 pm
==Next time, think before you bomb.==
They did. This is what they were hoping would happen.
Comment by Carhartt Representative Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:38 pm
People, you need to read the update before commenting further. Deletions are commencing, going forward and going backward.
Comment by Rich Miller Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:38 pm
Probably reasonable but I’m fairly certain Governor’s of states don’t dictate immigration policy. I don’t see how any Governor stops it.
Comment by Demoralized Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:39 pm
Rather than think before you “bomb” it should be think before you vote.
Comment by Jorge Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:42 pm
He’s not demagoguing the issue like some others including a few Governors. I’m not sure it’s necessary, but it’s temporary.
Comment by ArchPundit Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:42 pm
===So far in 2015, 94 refugees from Syria have been resettled in Illinois, 62 of them in Chicago===
Keep in mind that while both Illinois and Chicago are effectively bankrupt they are still accepting settlers from Syria. Chicago alone has accepted more displace people from Syria than Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain, all rich countries, combined.
Comment by Anonymous Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:43 pm
at the rate things have been going with the guv, i never thought i’d agree with him on anything. this i agree with.
Comment by Zoe Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:43 pm
Could someone please identify the persons in the Rauner administration who are qualified to conduct “a full review of our country’s acceptance and security processes by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security”?
I’ll take my answer off the air…
– MrJM
Comment by @MisterJayEm Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:44 pm
Rich, I can’t possibly see what the religion of a refugee has to do with anything.
ISIS kills a lot more Muslims than those of any other faith.
Comment by wordslinger Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:45 pm
This pronouncement from a capable, experienced, thoughtful, respected Governor might be cause to give him the benefit of a doubt relative to exploiting a situation as this. But no, we have a governor who possesses none of the above characteristics.
Comment by Anonymous Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:45 pm
Besides,I believe the US is a signatory to international asylum protocols dating back to the early 50’s. We’re not going to back out of those, but if we were, it would be a federal decision.
Comment by Cassandra Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:45 pm
To the Update;
===…The key word here is “temporarily.” They just want to pause this while they get some more assurances from the federal government about who is being brought in, what their backgrounds really are, etc.===
Temporary is important and critical in understanding the now, and after “now” what that will look like and mean going forward. A snapshot taken as absolute policy isn’t my concern. As I stated above, it’s the after and criteria going toward is where I am looking.
This part is more than reasonable by Gov. Rauner and his administration, in the “temporary”
Further…
===Also, they’re very sensitive to the fact that some of these refugees are Christians fleeing radical Islamic tyranny - which some of the far right commenters here and elsewhere should probably try to consider.===
Extremely thoughful to the real-time.
The Rauner response, especially after the Update and the explanation more than answers my questions for “the today” and I’m looking to what will be the response or responses for “the tomorrow”.
Thanks Rich for getting that response from a Rauner Administration operative.
Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:46 pm
Thank you Rich for the update. Always good to see none of us jump to a predetermined response.
Comment by Bogey Golfer Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:47 pm
I think the Rauner administration should’ve consulted with the Feds before making a public statement. Did they?
Comment by Wensicia Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:48 pm
Anonymous: “Chicago alone has accepted more displace people from Syria than Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain, all rich countries, combined.”
Rich: “some of these refugees are Christians fleeing radical Islamic tyranny”
Now give it a real good think, Anonymous. You can do it! See if you can puzzle this out for yourself. (Feel free to use Google if necessary.)
– MrJM
Comment by @MisterJayEm Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:50 pm
=== They just want to pause this while they get some more assurances from the federal government about who is being brought in, what their backgrounds really are, etc. ===
What in the world did they have beforehand?
Comment by Juvenal Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:52 pm
So much drama in some of these comments. The predictable and hysterical nature of some responses might as well be scripted. Who needs facts?
Comment by Anonymous Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:57 pm
Mr. Miller what’s wrong with the word Daesh?
Comment by Jorge Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:58 pm
I accept my deletion. I jumped to a conclusion before I had all of the facts. Mea culpa.
On the other hand, I doubt we’ll ever get all of the facts, so it may be a while before I can comment on this. I’m sure many will be grateful for that, but remember, it’s not a shut-off. It’s a temporary pause.
Comment by 47th Ward Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:04 pm
Jorge, that’s not why you were deleted. And if you can’t figure out why you were deleted, perhaps it’s best that you leave this website forever.
Comment by Rich Miller Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:05 pm
http://m.washingtontimes.com/news/2015/may/6/isis-announces-6-month-terror-campaign-names-5-tar/
Comment by Point of Information Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:06 pm
==- Anonymous - Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 12:57 pm:==
Definitely not the racist xenophobe crowd.
Comment by Precinct Captain Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:08 pm
Fair enough. Have a nice life.
Comment by Jorge Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:08 pm
Make rational decisions, remember that those are the very people who are trying to escape the horror, and don’t let fear win.
Comment by Aldyth Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:09 pm
The temporary halt is a very good thing.
How the feds will do the vetting is a very different question.
Additionally, last time I looked Illinois can not pay for it current obligations yet along take on more.
Comment by Cannon649 Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:09 pm
And after reading The Atlantic article Harry suggested, read http://www.salon.com/2015/02/19/the_atlantics_big_islam_lie_what_muslims_really_believe_about_isis/
Comment by Rasselas Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:10 pm
Probably a good step to put pressure.on the feds to review the screening process to ensure it’s adequate. Although it will be up to both parties (at fed level) to handle it maturely what could go wrong.
Comment by Mason born Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:11 pm
Didn’t see the update before I posted. My bad. I still think that going into hysterics over refugees, many of whom are fleeing genocide, plays into the hands of extremists of all stripes. Hopefully the issue won’t be further politicized.
Comment by olddog Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:15 pm
I think the update says “take a breath”. I think the Governor is saying “take a breath” before the update even says it.
Put this pie on the window sill for a spell.
Comment by A guy Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:15 pm
==Better to fight the battle there than in Paris, London, Berlin and Chicago.==
You are aware that this bumper sticker foreign policy strategy gave us Iraq? and likely gave us ISIS too. When Bush banned all former Baath party leaders what do you think they did when the new regime treated them like outcasts?
The answer is that they formed ISIS. “Fight’em over there, not here” sounds good if you don’t think about it. And the reddest part of our country will eat it up. In reality, its an unbelievably naïve strategy.
Comment by Abe the Babe Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:19 pm
Another clear contrast from the reactionary Kirk versus the thoughtful, measured Duckworth. Hint Senator, try thinking through the whole issue.
Comment by Precinct Captain Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:21 pm
And exactly how do the superstars expect this will affect federal funds that (I believe) IL has already accepted for refugee assistance?
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/orr/resource/state-letter-15-11
Comment by crazybleedingheart Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:24 pm
Given the incredibly detailed (Read: slow) clearance process the Feds use to vet Syrian refugees, there’s little chance that the US will accept the promised 10,000 refugees in time. So Rauner’s “class act” is purely symbolic.
Comment by Really? Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:25 pm
“No refugee related to the Syrian crisis should be admitted to the United States unless the (Obama) administration can guarantee, with 100 percent assurance, that they are not members, supporters or sympathizers of ISIS.”
And since 100% certainty about people’s sympathies is 100% impossible, what then, Sen. Kirk?
– MrJM
Comment by @MisterJayEm Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:25 pm
As long as he keeps out South Carolinan Christian Terrorists and their families who open fire on innocent people in church.
Comment by Jack Stephens Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:28 pm
@Rich Miller - once again, you are a voice of reason. Gracias for trying to keep the nuts in line and cleaning up comments on this thread.
Comment by Formerly Known As... Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:30 pm
It makes it easier for the rest of us to read.
Comment by Formerly Known As... Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:31 pm
==But there ARE rules in war, and indeed there must be.==
Has ISIS read that rule book? /s
Comment by Formerly Known As... Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:33 pm
I can see wanting to send a message to the Fed’s that the need to be able to answer some simple questions and some assurances on what their process looks like. It makes sense that ISIS would try to use the refugee crisis to their advantage and gain entry into countries they are targeting.
However, this doesn’t really mean anything because a terrorist (or anybody) can easily travel across state borders. If any state in the lower 48 is taking refugees, they can easily get to Illinois.
Also, Kirk needs to lower the hyperbole, we can’t give 100% assurances that anybody is not an ISIS sympathizer, including American citizens born and breed.
At this point it’s also important to remember that we are all humans and many of us are decedents of refugees.
Comment by Ahoy! Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:35 pm
I don’t believe it is un-American to expect INS to ramp up its vetting process. Hopefully this can be accomplished w/o too big of delay.
Comment by Blue dog dem Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:35 pm
focusing ire on refugees from one country is short sighted. there are a couple of crises and we need to know how to manage. people are fleeing from terrorism. and terrorists are from many places. the focus must be on care for those who need it and safeguards with checks regarding all those who enter the USA.
and lots and lots of investigation on terrorists. hat tip Anonymous. that’s a very stylish video with the person in the men’s business suit in a stand up news setting, video in multiple languages!
Comment by Amalia Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:36 pm
I don’t fear the terrorists from the middle east. The terrorists I fear are the home grown variety. We have seen a few of those in the past few years.
As far as the “pause” is concerned, there are times when something that is supposed to be temporary, becomes permanent by virtue of the length of time the “pause” is in place.
At the risk of being deleted, I disagree with the decision to stop taking refugees. This is pandering to the fearful.
Comment by Huh? Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:36 pm
Give up liberty for safety and you will have neither. Fear is used to convince people to give up their basic principals. Not to belittle Paris, but as was mentioned before - hundreds of thousands of people die violently in this country and those aren’t viewed as terrorists; but we are going to fear monger refugees because of a little more than a hundred deaths? This is just republican governors capitalizing on fear to engage in over reaching power. That is what should make people afraid. Look at history.
Comment by Paul Smyth Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:40 pm
Predictable and short-sighted.
Are we a shining city on a hill, ready to open our arms and lands to the refugees yearning to escape terrorists? Or a bunch of scared xenophobes, ready to play into the hands of those who yearn to create that fear?
I understand that Rich said this is a pause, and I appreciate his desire to foster sober, common-sense discourse. But this needs to be a very short pause. Very short.
Comment by Roamin' Numeral Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:43 pm
Mark Kirk isn’t the only one who’s utilizing full-throttled hyperbole around here.
Comment by Team Sleep Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:44 pm
To the updates, what, exactly is Gov. Rauner talking about? What state function is being “paused.”
Admission of refugees is a federal matter. What state resources are being used to settle refugees? Any? None?
From my experience, most refugees are settled with church sponsorship.
Comment by wordslinger Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:52 pm
Okay, so what does Rauner’s pause mean? What will the State of Illinois do or not do for Syrian refugees? I read both of the updates and I still don’t understand.
Rauner can’t order federal agencies to do anything, not can be bar them from doing things. If the feds take in 200 Syrian refugees and plop them down in Cicero, how exactly does Rauner respond?
Comment by Guzzlepot Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 1:56 pm
I reread. My bad Rich. I see he is talking about IDHS resources.
Comment by Guzzlepot Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 2:00 pm
Federal makes it illegal for states to do this. Look into the Hines V. Davidowitz case and the Refugee Act of 1980. Surprised to see so few articles about this online so far. Here’s one I found: http://thinkprogress.org/justice/2015/11/16/3722628/no-state-governors-cant-refuse-to-accept-syrian-refugees/
Comment by VoteDem24 Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 2:01 pm
“To the updates, what, exactly is Gov. Rauner talking about?”
It sounds like they’re reconsidering their initial toot on the xenophobic dog-whistle to me — but I’m sure there is some other perfectly reasonable explanation.
– MrJM
Comment by @MisterJayEm Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 2:03 pm
It’s funny, I am honestly a little shocked by this decision.
I understand opportunism is one of Rauner’s character traits, but I didn’t think ninnyism was.
Kirk, sure. Rauner, nah.
Comment by crazybleedingheart Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 2:03 pm
And besides Raunrer’s complete lack of humanity, this is most likely the reaction ISIS is counting on.
Comment by Cheryl44 Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 2:10 pm
I’m alsoo angry that Gulf nations aren’t taking in their Muslim brothers refugees. But America is a nation of immigrants and refugees, and the Mayflower group did not have visas from the local indigent Indian groups allowing them to settle.
Yes, the problem is with young adult Jahidists. So accept refugees over 30 and under 10.
Comment by Capitol View Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 2:20 pm
Why didn’t we close our borders to Dunkin while we had the chance?
Comment by Dome Gnome Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 2:28 pm
Five minutes on the google would be sufficient for Gov. Rauner or Sen. Kirk to get their learn on as to the multiple steps and lengthy vetting process that potential refugees must go through before they can even get in line for a chance to get to the United States.
I’m sure they got right on that after issuing their press releases.
Comment by wordslinger Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 2:34 pm
What’s a “halt” mean?
It might be temporary, but what is it?
Is Rauner going to have State Police surround the international arrivals complex at O’Hare? Is he proposing to have local police start their own raids? Change the holding rules at all local and county jails?
Didn’t we learn here that one significant difference in ethnic makeup of Illinois versus other states, was the disproportionate number of Assyrians from the Mid East? Perhaps a lot of family or community contacts for refugees to make.
Comment by walker Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 2:35 pm
If the national borders are open, what difference does it make that Illinois doesn’t allow resettlement? If a fake refugee is intent on harming Chicago he or she could certainly drive here from another state.
Comment by Northsider Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 2:35 pm
===It sounds like they’re reconsidering their initial toot on the xenophobic dog-whistle to me — but I’m sure there is some other perfectly reasonable explanation.
He figured out most of the attackers were Belgian.
Comment by ArchPundit Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 2:59 pm
If he’s going to ban people from countries that attacked Paris, could he at least make an exception for DeBruyne and Hazard? The Fire’s front line and midfield could use those guys.
Maybe Mignolet too. If they want to flee Belgium, we should allow them to settle in Bridgeview.
Comment by Gooner Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 3:09 pm
Let’s build a wall! It will keep the terrorists out and not allow all those business’ that are leaving to relocate.
Comment by Buzzie Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 3:14 pm
” If a fake refugee is intent on harming Chicago he or she could certainly drive here from another state. ”
Does this mean that we now have to man the borders of Illinois to stop all immigration for Wisconsin, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri and Iowa?
Oh the humanity … /s
Comment by Huh? Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 3:32 pm
+With over a decade of experience in law enforcement, I know better than most that we need to do the proper background checks, but banning Syrian refugees from Illinois makes no sense.+
Ms. Zopp, how does your expertise in background checking equate to Ms. Bennett’s situation when you were a CPS Board Member….had to ask.
Comment by Bogey Golfer Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 3:37 pm
Refugees go thru approximately a 2 yr vetting process so we won’t see any refugees from Syria anytime soon. Meanwhile, Rauner zero’d-out funding for ESL and citizenship classes affecting refugees here now.
Comment by Emily Booth Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 3:40 pm
Not sure the Gov. can decide this. I believe this to be a federal issue rather than state.
Comment by Big foot Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 4:16 pm
If you accept the premise that the US does not maintain a sufficient birth rate to keep the consumer economy expanding, you also accept that some immigration is necessary.
Hopefully, when comparing potential immigrant populations, there is a small softening toward the mostly Catholic Hispanic immigration situation. Especially, a softening to keeping intact productive families, and providing a legal path for them.
Comment by cdog Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 4:20 pm
According to ThinkProgress, it’s not the Gov’s call:
“No, State Governors Can’t Refuse To Accept Syrian Refugees”
http://thinkprogress.org/justice/2015/11/16/3722628/no-state-governors-cant-refuse-to-accept-syrian-refugees/
Comment by Appalled Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 4:33 pm
Oh, sorry - didn’t see this was already posted
Comment by Appalled Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 4:34 pm
Yes, some of the refugees are Christians. So what? Did anyone notice the attack on what were likely Muslims in Beirut the day before the attack on Paris? Blaming Muslims at large for ISIS is not just illogical; it’s obnoxious.
Comment by JackD Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 4:38 pm
I wish there was a seasonally appropriate story about a young couple from the Middle East having a child and being turned away by the heartless as they sought refuge.
Comment by Cathartt Representative Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 4:41 pm
The Muslims in Beirut were Shia. ISIL is Sunni. Shia to them are like Protestants to the Spanish Inquisition.
ISIL may be a religious version of the Anarchist assassins of11880-1937. They caused considerable damage and provoked violent responses. I hope we eliminate ISIL with less damage to our liberties.
Comment by Last Bull Moose Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 5:18 pm
Governors don’t have the power to turn away political refugees who are admitted by the Federal government. This is empty political posturing.
The Federal government should continue to accept refugees from Syria after conducting a background check using the huge amount of intelligence information that it has at its disposal.
I found this comment rather laughable:
Gooner: “Further, until we set up guards at Illinois borders, the plan is ridiculous.”
Comment by Ultragreen Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 5:27 pm
Way to go Rauner!!!!!!!!!
Comment by sloman2001 Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 5:37 pm
Richard Longworth responds to Rauner’s action:
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/commentary/ct-syrian-refugees-rauner-illinois-islamic-state-perspec-20151116-story.html
Comment by Wensicia Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 5:57 pm
So since the governor really has no role and can’t do anything, what was the purpose of the press release?
Given the track record (Pullman Museum, childcare proclamation), I guess we can expect a state proclamation celebrating the anniversary of Emma Lazarus’ birth on Thursday.
Comment by wordslinger Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 6:17 pm
Nothing more than political grandstanding. This kind of reminds me of what was done to the Japanese citizens after Pearl Harbor was bombed, hope it doesn’t go to that extreme. We should be more concerned about a home grown attack.
Comment by Paceman Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 6:31 pm
Give me your tired, your poor. Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free. But don’t send me . . . Muslims? Or Syrians?
Excellent column by Longworth.
Comment by Keyrock Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 6:35 pm
“I think what ISIS wants to do is provoke a right-wing backlash against refugees and immigrant communities that come from Islamic countries, because that conflict gives credence to their world view that there is a war between the West and Islam. This Islamophobic backlash that we see happening is exactly what they want. They think that this will on the one hand, drive Europeans towards that right-wing point, and on the other hand, drive those communities towards them.” — Syrian-American political researcher Nader Atassi, interviewed by CBC Radio
http://www.cbc.ca/radio/the180/paris-attacks-why-keystone-was-a-powerful-symbol-and-robot-doctors-1.3316988/how-isis-benefits-from-anti-refugee-sentiment-1.3319618
Comment by olddog Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 7:03 pm
Having flashbacks to the US State Department handling of refugees being brought in from the First Ivorian Civil War. Link is https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Ivorian_Civil_War
One of the primary requirements for bring in refugees into the US at the time was that NONE of the refugees immigrating into the US could have been soldiers on any side of the civil war conflict.
Everybody making application had to be certified by the UN agency overseeing the refugee program. The programs were not US run, but run by locals who were UN employees.
Short story: Lots of brides were paid, and lots of bad people got into the US (and other EU nations). Lots of bad people.
And when US state department workers on the ground complained to the higher ups in the State Department, nothing got done. Except the whistleblowers got demoted or transferred.
I would hope that Governor Rauner is asking the hard questions that need to be asked of Homeland Security and the US State Department.
I hope he gets credible answers.
This is going to get hard. If everyone’s story has to be verified (and that’s going to be an absolute requirement after Paris), that means having US nationals on the ground handling the verification work. Tough, dangerous business. You are going to make those people doing the interviews and verification into targets. Very valuable high profile targets.
We really need to think this whole process through.
Comment by Judgment Day (on the road) Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 7:15 pm
Judgement Day “Short story: Lots of brides were paid” I know it’s a typo, but made me laugh too.
Comment by NoGifts Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 7:19 pm
Without a budget how will the state pay the contract workers who will police the borders with Indiana, Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri and Kentucky?
Comment by DuPage Dave Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 7:32 pm
Ummm weren’t some of the attackers of French origin? So we are going to stop the French from coming too right? Pity the poor Syrians, Muslim or Christian, that are trying to escape this madness only to find it still suffocating them
Comment by GA Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 8:43 pm
I take it the governor’s Homeland Security Advisor, IEMA Director James K. Joseph, will be heading up this deep-dive into the governor’s concerns regarding the federales refugee approval process.
Since the governor raised this issue, perhaps Director Joseph could be made available to explain in detail what steps he’ll be taking with the federales to ensure the governor’s sincere concerns regarding our safety are addressed.
Comment by Wordslinger Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 8:52 pm
European Nations should be European Nationals.
Comment by DuPage Grandma Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 9:31 pm
Could we just be cool and not backward for once?
Comment by Anonymous Monday, Nov 16, 15 @ 10:28 pm
DuPage Dave, we will need a Navy too to protect our border with Michigan.
Comment by Paceman Tuesday, Nov 17, 15 @ 5:34 am
Reminds me of the ebola hysteria from a year ago.
Comment by Handle Bar Mustache Tuesday, Nov 17, 15 @ 2:02 pm