7 days to go until Nevada's Caucus!

It's been a little hectic up here in Reno, but completely worth it. I started working on John McCain's campaign in early December, and while things have been a little insane, it's to be expected at such an important time. Originally, I didn't know too much about John McCain. I didn't know what he wanted to do as President, how he was going to make a difference, and why he even deserved my vote. So I did my homework and brushed up on some of his policy ideas.

I started with Illegal Immigration, as it is a hot button issue for this year's elections. As I began the dive into his political platform, it started out very similar to most politicians: he wants to secure the border. Here's the difference though, John McCain has a plan. It starts with recognizing the need to build strong relationships with leaders in Latin American and Mexico who support our goals of democracy and freedom. By working together, instead of against each other, our goals become a reality.

He supports the temporary worker program, helping those who need it become initiated to American life, but he doesn't want this to overshadow the efforts of maintaining a healthy and productive relationship with Mexico and its leaders.  So, once I realized that I didn't know what the temporary worker program was, I did a little more research to understand the logistics.

This program offers temporary legal status to illegal immigrants to fill jobs that are vacant. This lasts for three years, and is renewable so long as the person fulfills the requirements of the program (not breaking the law, maintaining a job, etc.) The employers also have responsibilities. First, they must make the effort to extend offers to American workers. Second, they must not hire undocumented individuals to positions that need filling. Third, they must keep track of the individuals they do hire, so we may follow their progress, as well as enforce current immigration laws.

To apply for this program there is a one-time fee, and individuals can travel back and forth from their home country to America any time without having to worry about getting back into the country. This program does not stop immigrants from applying for citizenship; rather it encourages and supports the individuals who wish to become an American citizen, giving them the opportunity to earn an income while walking along the pathway to American Citizenship.

So there you have it, John McCain's plans for border security.