November 4, 2007
Posted: 10:04 AM ET

Clinton spoke in Des Moines Saturday.

DES MOINES, Iowa (CNN) — At least two people spoke up in front of Hillary Clinton on Saturday in support of driver's licenses for illegal immigrants, an issue Clinton said relates to a larger problem "we have to solve."

The senator from New York had just finished speaking to a group of Polk County, Iowa, field staff in Des Moines and was getting ready to leave the room when Clinton supporter Lee Jolliffe started yelling over the crowd noise.

"There are two of us here," Jolliffe said, "who have been hit by those unlicensed drivers. It's not a privilege, it’s a protection."

Jolliffe was pointing out that drivers who can have licenses are more likely to have insurance.

"Thank you, thank you, thank you," Clinton responded. "I appreciate you raising that because, you know, the federal government has failed. The federal government has failed, and states are trying to figure out what to do."

She continued, "But two people right in this room have been hit, have been hit by people who are here and undocumented."

That prompted one man to shout, "More than two!"

"More than two," Clinton replied. "So, you know, at some point we have to solve this problem because we're seeing all sorts of consequences. So thank you for being a witness to that. Thank you."

Jolliffe later told CNN she wanted to give Clinton an opportunity to defend herself on the issue, one that created some heat at Tuesday night's debate.

Asked about New York Gov. Eliot Spitzer's controversial plan to give driver's licenses to illegal immigrants, Clinton said it "makes a lot of sense" but stopped short of endorsing the plan.

"We want to know who's in New York," she said. "We want people to come out of the shadows."

Former Sen. John Edwards, D-North Carolina, claimed Clinton's answer was inconsistent. And Sen. Chris Dodd, D-Connecticut, called the plan "troublesome," adding that "a license is a privilege, and that ought not to be extended, in my view."

Sen. Barack Obama later said, "Senator Clinton left us wondering where she stood on every single hard question from Iran to Social Security to drivers' licenses for undocumented workers."

-CNN's Chris Welch and Steve Brusk

Filed under: Hillary Clinton • Iowa


Luzdenny Fernandez   February 5th, 2008 3:26 pm ET

I think it is a wonder idea to give illegal immigrants driver icense. That would give people protection. We need a plan to give illegal immigrants a chance to be legal!Who ever is against illegal immigrants is your opinion but always think that we were all MIGRATED. This was not your country in the first place. Also if you believe in GOD you would understand the we are all his children. As long as you come into America to work or go to school to provide shelter and food for your family, you should have the right to have permission to be here!!!!!!!!!!!! Hatred is not going to stop in this world with people always wanting the worse for other people. We just need a background check for all immigrants and determin from there!!!!! WALK IN LOVE PEOPLE!!!!!!!!!!

THANKS AND VOTE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

DA   January 4th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

MY CAR WAS HIT ON 12-28-07 BY AN HISPANIC MALE ,HE DID NOT STOP.LATER TO FIND OUT HE HAD NO DRIVERS LICENSE AND NO INS.WHY BECAUSE HE CANT GET THEM .SO WHO PAYS THE BILL MY INS. AND I . I SAY IF U CANT GET THEM OUT OF HERE, GIVE THEM DRIVERS LICENSE SO THEY WILL HAVE INS .

AJ J   December 23rd, 2007 2:44 am ET

Liz Tulsa defends illegals as paying taxes and working 'honestly' (?) and says 'they might be using someone else's social security number') then goes on to defend 'oh at least that way they're paying taxes'. HONEY, have YOU ever had YOUR social security number STOLEN AND USED by one of these upstanding people? As someone who HAS, believe me, it's a NIGHTMARE. The person they found out was doing it drives an SUV and was buying into 'the American Dream' on MY identity. Then they started messing up, and WHO did they come after? Who ended up getting really in trouble with credit companies and info bureaus? Not that person. ME. So remember, stealing and using someone's social security number is REALLY REALLY SERIOUS FOR THE PERSON THEY STEAL IT FROM. Before you wax philosophical about 'a better life' think about the person's life that they are destroying.

lou ny,ny   December 8th, 2007 7:52 am ET

Boy she really water the plants on this one.

Jessica, North Plainfield, NJ   December 4th, 2007 11:44 am ET

Personally, I am sick of people complaining so much about illegal aliens. Instead of just trying to deport all of illegal aliens they should see who are an advantage to the US. It's true that some illegal aliens are doing nothing to help the US. I believe the illegal aliens are trying to make something of themselves and go to school should be left alone. Everyone always says that immigrants are a problem. I have a question to ask everyone: Where do you all think you came from? There is no such thing as a white or black person. "White" people originate from other countries whose parents migrated to the US. Hello!! As for "black" people they also originate from different countries. The statements that people make sometimes are just ridiculous. What we really need to focus on is better schooling because everyday schools get worse. Drugs and alcohol are always circulating in school somehow. When I was in high school many of students came to school high.(I'm Puerto Rican, female,19) (Sorry it was long) Take care all.

santiago, portland Oregon   December 3rd, 2007 10:19 pm ET

you know what's funny about this…. i've been living in the states for about 11 years as undocumented person (not my choice) cause my mom brought me here illegally and kicked me out of her house and she never fixed my status, i have to work otherwise i'll starve to death..but umm i have never encounter an angry american in my path, by the contrary, every person i've met in the U.S has been kind to me and helped me so much and now i wander why there's so many people hidding in the net and radio shows talking so bad about ilegal persons..why? i know everyone say " well they are welcome here but if they come legally" you know when's that going to happen? never!!

Liz Tulsa ok   November 18th, 2007 12:01 am ET

Respond of the Comment " Dont pay taxes".. When they shop at the store justlike you and me.. they pay taxes.. they dont get away just because they are illegal.. there is only a small portion who get paid under the table.. but there is millions and millions who work with a social security( might be some one elses number) get taxes deducted and never file a claim. Now where does that money go to? Not to another country it stays here in the U.S! We have a bigger problem with the way in Iraq but some of you numbskulls just dont understand

j. bruce, houston, TX   November 10th, 2007 2:31 am ET

It would be nice to THINK that giving illegal aliens drivers licenses would in some way help. But it won't. The illegals would simply pass them around to all their friends. Only a few would ever bother to get licenses. Most — because of the childish, egocentric, magical thinking of their home countries — would not even be aware that there ARE laws for driving. As for purchasing insurance? Not even a consideration.

So much for using drivers licenses to keep track of illegals, to get the poor things out of the shadows. One license for 20 men, roaming about, lying about their names and addresses?
I don't think so.

WE follow the rule of law. However, it would be a foolish, costly mistake to assume that giving illegal aliens licenses would make THEM suddenly follow the rule of law. After all, an illegal alien is here….illegally.

So what WOULD the licenses accomplish? An undeserved feeling of entitlement, an affirmation of their growing larceny, a bit of reinforcement to go out and break ANOTHER rule or law, and the opportunity to use that license to obtain other documents and make credit card purchases they have no inclination whatsoever to pay for.

The only other major outcome of providing drivers licennses to illegal aliens comes in the form of inadvertently providing breeder documents for those who have snuck into our country not so much to commit fraud as to commit terrorism. Something to think about the next time you board a plane.

Darrel Lone Rock Iowa   November 8th, 2007 4:49 pm ET

To give a liscense to drive in America to an ILLEGAL ALIAN makes me wonder what sort interest she has in mind

My interest are to deport the Illegal's and gain positive controll over our borders. Their is a legal way to come to AMERICA and that is regulate by laws and our Goverment Elected should enfore them or get out of the way and let someone in who will.

This is what the VAST MAJORITY of LEGAL AMERICANS DEMAND. IT A CLER PICTURE AND YET THOSE IN WASHINGTON CHOOSE NOT TO ENFORCE OUR LAWS. Boy is it time to have a good house cleaning in Washington.

CK, Arlington, VA   November 7th, 2007 9:38 am ET

Of course Hillary wants driver licensing of illegals. It opens the way for them to vote…Democrat, of course. The same reason she wanted to eliminate the Electoral College after the 2000 Presidential race.
She wants America's population centers, which tend to be Democrat, to decide who is President. All you folks in the midwest don't matter…you tend to be Republicans anyway.

I have more faith in our founding fathers than I do a Clinton. One last thing, let's just enforce our current laws on immigration.

Ann, Logansport, IN   November 7th, 2007 1:00 am ET

I suppose that no U.S. born citizen has been in accidents and had no insurance, and every citizen has health insurance?? Not! When a mexican becomes a terriost, let me know! I believe all terriost were and are here legally. Imagine that one. What happens to the produce industry if all the illegals are thrown out of this country? From a country that was built from illegal aliens we sure are nasty to others. Also what happens when we have a worse relationship with Mexico and they decide to let others into their country to get to us? Please think twice about all your judgements, they could come home to roost. Why not give drivers license to them? All the ones I know have insurance on their cars just not in their names because of not being able to get a license.

Rose Hann New London, CT   November 6th, 2007 12:06 pm ET

I live in CT and our Mayor in New Haven CT gave all illegals an ID card. We know who most of them are as a result. I understand Gov. Spitzer's notion, giving a license to illegals makes more sense, after you have had an accident with as unisured illegal. Most of them already have licenses through fruad, what's the difference?

Karen,ny   November 6th, 2007 8:45 am ET

I THINK THAT ELLIOT SPITZER SHOULD BE IMPEACHED!!!I AM SORRY THAT I VOTED FOR HIM.

Ron,   November 5th, 2007 11:17 pm ET

The two speakers were obvioulsy shills. Fact is, ILLEGAL ALIENS will not get insurance. Does not matter if you have to show insurance coverage to get tags on vehical or not. The ILLEGAL ALIEN will get the insurance the day before and cancel the same day after having to show DMV they are covered. That is the scam.

How in the heck can the government guarantee us that those people are who they say they are. I know I could pose as an ILLEGAL ALIEN and get a drivers license in a different name.

Bill , Covington,LA   November 5th, 2007 9:46 pm ET

All these people wanting to license illegale, can you guarentee me they are not rag-heads who have gotten phony mexican doccuments and are now here waiting in the shadows for the necessary items to be shipped in so they can collest them and blow up something. I can only hope that each and every one of you are at ground zero when it happens.

Lousie, Wichita Falls, TX   November 5th, 2007 8:54 pm ET

This was nothing more than a set-up by the Clinton group. We are losing our country and all they care about is getting illegal votes.

Elena,Miami, Florida   November 5th, 2007 8:37 pm ET

Illegal is Illegal…. period.Buy Insurance …what? Hillary is all about Hillary….we want HER to come out of THE SHADOWS. Living here in the 3rd world of Miami…All the Illegals care about is our MONEY AND THEIR WAY OF GETTING IT!!!!!

Jen, Atlanta, GA   November 5th, 2007 8:30 pm ET

Mrs. Clinton, if you give an illegal immigrant the privilege to have a drivers license, does that mean they have the privilege to vote for you too?
You know you will need their votes. Ugh!

Mary, Mountain View, CA   November 5th, 2007 6:49 pm ET

Why are we making such a big stink about giving "illegals" drivers licenses because they supposedly crash their cars into people? Turns out US citizens are bad drivers too! How about we make EVERYONE test for their drivers license every 5 years? That'll keep ALL of the crazy, arrogant, holier-than-thou drivers (legal or not) off the streets, especially over here in Silicon Valley. I am SO tired of narrowly escaping accidents from jerkwads with BMWs who feel that they have the right of way at all times just because they work at Google.

KR carbondale, ill   November 5th, 2007 6:39 pm ET

i was hit by a former illegal immigrant. by the time he became legal. he all ready had racked up 5 DUI charges, along with no insurance, and fleeing some accidents to be later caught. he could not get a licennes in my state. he did ask me about becomeing a truck driver. later that week the guy was picked up on drug charges. this guy lives down the street from me and is driving over the road in a triaxle truck for a coal mine. just wate till he hits you on the road.

311 - LV, NV   November 5th, 2007 6:29 pm ET

The liberals, and CNN are little punk's!!!

AJ, Chicago IL   November 5th, 2007 6:03 pm ET

Posted By Ralph. Austin : November 3, 2007 10:16 pm

Exactly where does Senator Obama stand on the drivers license issue. He didn't say at the debate. Of course, he also doesn't vote in the Senate when it mighe be difficult later either. The spineless gentleman from Illinois.

Ralph, either you didn't see the entire debate or you are an idiot! While Hillary mumbled and stumpled her way to a convoluted answer, Tim Russert asked Obama straight out (during Obama's response that he was confused by Hillary's response) do you support the NY governor's proposal to require illegal immigrants to have driver's licenses? Obama's answer was "yes and I disagree with Senator Dodd, because it is a public safety issue". You may not agree with his response but at least he had the integrity and conviction to state what he believed. In fact, Tim Russert followed up this question with "does any of the other candidates think it is a good idea to require illegal aliens to have driver's licenses?" GUESS WHAT! All the other candidates acknowledged YES, except Dodd and Clinton. Dodd, I understand. He made his point as to why illegal immigrants should not have a driver's license. But Hillary ?! I believe it even more, that trusting what Hillary says and what she does is a major problem.

Mike, Gilbert AZ   November 5th, 2007 4:58 pm ET

Why give them driver's licenses? Once you have a driver's license you can VOTE. It's round-a-bout way to get their illegal vote, it's getting to hard for them to round up the bums off the street and promise them cigarettes, cash then load them on the buses for the polling stations. Or sign up all those dead people.

Chris McMahon, Palm Springs CA   November 5th, 2007 4:40 pm ET

The federal government was created for the common defense not the common immigration reform. The federal government was empowered to protect us from invasion. It drives me up a wall to hear politicians say we need to do something when they cannot even do their jobs.

RightyTighty   November 5th, 2007 3:45 pm ET

"Jolliffe's actually my professor at Drake University"

Surprise surprise. No it's no surprise to find another liberal activist professor shamelessly yelling support for open US borders. But using fussy math as the basis of that argument?
God I hope this is not a statistics professor..

Kate, Aurora CO   November 5th, 2007 2:37 pm ET

What makes some believe people so willing to disregard our laws to begin with, will comply with this law? I read a post that had a really good idea. Offer the drivers licenses or state identification as the first step towards a path to citizenship. They will get the license and then be notified at a later date regarding the next steps required, such as paying a fine and learning English, which if you are a legal citizen know this is required for legalization. If they do not comply with the steps, then deportation process should be initiated. If an illegal does not even begin the process with a license or state identification, deporation immediately. But before we can think about any of that our government needs to address our porous borders. It is not fair to the middle class who are being billed to provide free healthcare, free education etc, to people who have no respect for our country or our laws.

Dan , Beverly, MA   November 5th, 2007 2:09 pm ET

I don't understand why people like Shrillary want to turn our country into a 3rd world toilet. Why does anyone want that? ENFORCE THE LAWS THAT EXIST! It can be done. We need to use our millitary to round them up and have a mass deportation of all CRIMINALS ILLEGAL ALIENS. Screw being PC, this is our lives we are talking about here.

Jon, Sacramento ~ Ca   November 5th, 2007 2:01 pm ET

Former Rightie,

You wrote, "Hello – reality check ! They are here because they can get jobs. Jobs that Americans will not do, or else the jobs would not exist for them. For those of you willing to pay more for a head of lettuce,…"

HELLOOOOO – stop buying into the liberal mantra "illegal aliens do the work no one else wants to do". LEGAL ALIENS will do this work. The ONLY difference between LEGAL and ILLEGAL is one obeys the laws – the others ignore it.

You think the cost of lettuce is going to shoot up? I'll gladly pay $3 for a head of lettuce if that means a reduction of BILLIONS in uncovered medical costs, reduction in crime, and a safer border are a result of enforcing our immigration policy!

Wes   November 5th, 2007 2:00 pm ET

This country is in big trouble.. maybe a hillary presidency is what we need to get the real Americans awake and start the armed revolution! and this time its going to be a total cleanup, shutdown notsofree trade, get out of the UN, shoot and/or deport all illegals and wipe out the mental sickness called liberalism/moronism completely.

Max, Des Moines, IA   November 5th, 2007 1:13 pm ET

Jolliffe's actually my professor at Drake University, and she's not a plant, but one of the many Iowa Democrats who are in need of change in this country and will fight for it and challenge the candidates to make it happen.

So feel free to keep calling her a plant, but it isn't true, I'm afraid. Does know a thing or two about graphic design, though.

Henry Hahn / Baltimore, MD   November 5th, 2007 1:12 pm ET

On immigration, "The federal government has failed," cries Mrs. Clinton twice. Apparently the brightest woman in the country exempts herself as a senator from the federal government. And as a senator from New York she exempts herself from the federal system in taking no leadership, early or late, on immigration. Is this mere stupidity or a mea culpa bid for the higher sainthood by self-crucifixion?

This, of course, is the same low-wattage senator who wrote a bill to abolish the Electoral College. Did she miss PoliSci 101 the day the class learned that the chief reason for the Senate was to make representation in the Electoral College more equal between large and small states? Without the Electoral College there would have been no reason for the Senate. Has Hillary moved to abolish the Senate? Does baloney submit itself to the grinder?

Henry Hahn

Chris, Middletown, CT   November 5th, 2007 1:00 pm ET

Hillary….they did "figure it out" – its called "illegal" – now….the states have to enforce it….not condone it….what a dope

J. Philip, Mt. Olive, Louisiana   November 5th, 2007 12:33 pm ET

We all know this Drivers License gimick is about registering Illegal Mexicans to vote Democrat in the Nov. 2008 elections, least we forget, there are close to 30 Million Illegal Mexicans in the USA.
,

Paul Eversman   November 5th, 2007 12:29 pm ET

Once again Hillary tries to fool people by distorting the facts. Just because a person may have a license does NOT mean they have insurance for the car they may drive. It is the CAR that carries insurance NOT the driver! There is no such thing as an insured driver. You can be licensed but the car you drive might be uninsured. I'm sure if we dig into these incidents of cars driven by illegals we will find hat the cars they drove were not their own and were uninsured as well. I doubt that illegals with licenses will be registering and insuring cars. They are most likely NOT there own vehicles.

therealist   November 5th, 2007 11:53 am ET

This is a fine example of a bogus, biased, pro-Hillary story from CNN. You guys are getting as bad as MSMBC when it comes to planting pudits and then eporting their biased political view points. Where's all that hate spewed at FEMA for asking staffers questions??

Raman, Plano TX   November 5th, 2007 11:45 am ET

– Elizabeth, TN
– Jed, MN

I just have to ask this:

Just got a message from Walker: Huge PR campaign under way.

Now PR is as in Public Relations or PR is as in P. Rajendra (used to be National Group Head at NIIT, India Ltd. – A HCL group company. HPS-HCL Perot System was a joint venture between HCL and Perot Systems Corp).

Now Walker is any Walker or JeffreyWalker of Tenfold (a Utah based company that was in alliance with Perot Systems Corp). Can you recall Mitt Romney was Chief of Winter Olympics that were hosted at Utah sometime back.

Now Jeffery is any Jeffery or a brigadier General just injured last week in Iraq.

An example of how IDs can be messed up.

I may be halucinating but certainly not without a reason.

camel jockey, los angeles, ca   November 5th, 2007 10:18 am ET

In a real sense, the illegals are victims. Victims of being Mexican. What is never talked about is Mexico and why they are not able or willing to provide for their citizens. Why is this country so screwed up?

camel jockey, los angeles, ca   November 5th, 2007 10:13 am ET

I wasn't aware they needed driver's licenses to have insurance. Those two sounded like shills working for the governor of New York.

Robert Cadalso NYC, NY   November 5th, 2007 10:08 am ET

12 states grant driver license to illegal aliens. It is the best for security. If people don't want this, then they should DEMAND that 12 million illegal are deported. Come on! I'd like to see the Federal Government start deporting. . .

Bobbie, Ky   November 5th, 2007 9:18 am ET

This is not about letting illegals, drive!
It's about having them vote in our elections, to cancel out citizens' votes.

Tom,Lake Placid,NY   November 5th, 2007 9:16 am ET

In order to license a car in NY and other states. (I hope) you need to prove you have insurance on the vehicle. And have a drivers license?Until the bigger picture of illegal immigration is sorted out these band-aid fixes don't do much except give political adversaries something to debate and point fingers at. And voters to be confused on. Too much attention to details and no answers to the larger picture/problem. The real concern is are you for or against illegal immigrants staying or being booted. Until we fix the fence or enforce the laws, all we do is create fodder for the politicians to confuse us. Someone already said that there are two sides to every question. (maybe more) Complex problems take complex solutions and we want an instant answer. Don't we all know by now that nothing happens quickly in our gov'tment.

Ed,Ellenville,New York   November 5th, 2007 8:06 am ET

Teri,W.Orange-Thank you for so perfectly describing your nazi agenda to declare as many legal US citizens as possible "illegal" in order to protect your future holocaust. We know all about your infantile plan. I'm sure the RNC is quite pleased that you outed them so well. Treason against our nation is a serious crime and I'm sure the FBI is on to you now. Maybe you'd like it in Mexico,at least you might be free there. I happen to be well known to law enforcement and every agency is on my side,not yours.

David, San Diego, USA   November 5th, 2007 5:01 am ET

I'm a one-issue voter, and that issue is the invasion … of the United States by illegal aliens. Any politician who would do anything OTHER than send them all home will have to make do without my vote, or my monetary support.

Barbara Hayward, Ca   November 5th, 2007 4:26 am ET

Those people were plants, wake up people the Clintons will do anything to cover up, finagle and win. Just sickening.

Hilary, Rochester NY   November 5th, 2007 3:55 am ET

Why do otherwise normal people become wackos when they hear the words "illegal immigrant"? I mean, I get that illegal immigration is a serious problem and everything, but…they'll bankrupt Social Security if we give them driver's licenses? We should deport them all to Iraq? CIVIL WAR??? From what I've read on this board, a lot of you could use an evening at home with a couple of Ativan and some pan flute music. Seriously.

Illegal immigration is the problem–not illegal immigrants. We have illegal immigrantion because: We have an ass-backwards immigration policy that makes it prohibitively costly, intrusive, frustrating, and often futile to try to immigrate to the U.S. legally; a fantasy that we can realistically seal a 1,800 mile border against illegal immigration; business interests drooling over the prospect of a $2/hr labor pool, and federal authorities willing to wink at the practice of hiring illegals. Illegal immigrants wouldn't be illegal if it we had an immigration policy that was coherent, efficient, and navigable. There wouldn't be illegal immigrants if the only work available was for people legally present, and if employers who hired illegals were heavily fined and sanctioned to the extent that none of them would ever risk it. The vast majority of illegal immigrants in this country are people whose presence here would be an asset to the United States, not a burden as many of you seem to believe, but for our incredibly wrong-headed immigration policy.

You all have been seriously duped, meanwhile. Someone high up finally figured out you're pissed off, and identified a convenient scapegoat for you in the illegal immigrant. A couple of people here have tried to point out the basic errors in the anti-immigration talking points, and have tried to explain how kicking everyone out and building a big fence is a completely hare-brained plan, but right away it's back to the same absurdities about bankrupting social security and taking our jobs away, and the calls for a house-to-house kick-in-the-door round-up scenario.

Believe me, I was all ready to roll my eyes at Hillary Clinton's remarks during the debate. Then I actually read them. Not only were they blunt and straightforward, but they actually provided a much better explanation for Spitzer's licensing plan than Spitzer himself gave. States are frustrated. They are NOT the federal government and enforcing immigration laws is NOT within their purview. Regulating the operation and insurance of motor vehicles, and the conduct of their drivers, IS. Congress has not passed immigration reform, has not figured out what to do about the 13 million illegal immigrants present in the country, and has not figured out what the enforcement plan will be going forward. Meanwhile, the states have a job to do, and are being told that they can't do it because they might inadvertently violate the REAL ID Act or extend some sacred driving privilege to illegal immigrants. I have no question about Mrs. Clinton's position on this–it's "what the hell do you want Governor Spitzer to do while we're in Washington squabbling about how high we should build the wall on our border with Mexico?"

Suckers.

Hank Mitzelblick   November 5th, 2007 3:06 am ET

Hey Colin742, how can you type with your head up your rectum? Are you a Hillary bootlicker? The arguments of the anti-illegal crowd make the Democrats shake in all their retarded, race-baiting, illogical glory. YOU need to go to NumbersUSA or VDARE.com and get an education on immigration. Be sure to put your pants on before you leave your mom's basement tomorrow morning.

Teri, W. Orange, NJ   November 5th, 2007 12:53 am ET

I hope someone arrests the illegal who posted below. You are not a citizen, you do not get to decide what the law is, and who cares if you pay property taxes. We cannot handle the 40 million illegals that are currently diseasing and invading our shores. Don't believe the 10-20 million lie. It's atleast 40 if not more. YOu think traffic is bad now? You think ERs are bad now? Just wait til G-d forbid Sir Rodham-Clinton gets into office and lets those who have no loyalty to our country become legal and import their families! Hope no one is eating in restaurants with illegal (mostly likely Mexican 80% of illegals are!) workers! Illegal workers have not been screened for security or health! Ask yourself if you feel like dying soon. You're playing Russian Roulette with your self and your loved ones every time you breath next to an illegal or eat from a plate that has been touched by one! Don't believe me? Look up Chagas…. Look up TB, Polio, Leprosy, Hepatitis! Think those diseases are gone or have vaccines? Nope. they are now untreatable and DEADLY! You can thank illegal Mexicans and (some) illegal Chinese for their return! Phillipines has exported something like 20% of their country here… That is the new world solution for poor countries… Kick out the worthless to make money and suck America dry, so they can send money back home and not put a strain on their own resources… Think Prisons are over crowded? 1/4 of inmates are illegals here for violent crimes… They are murdering, robbing and raping Americans and Legal citizens everywhere they go!

Watch this http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=5871651411393887069 It's based on undisputed biased research by demographers. It shows the scary realities of the population illegal explosion on our land! Not to mention it keeps other lands in poverty, and denies Black Americans the ability to get hire wages. The only racists are supporters of Illegal Alien Invaders!

G Kelly -Phoenix, az.   November 5th, 2007 12:31 am ET

Does anyone else smell the fish ?!!!!

Eric Nowak, Naperville IL   November 5th, 2007 12:24 am ET

The State of NY wil now allow illgals to vote and buy handguns. With a driver's license, they will also be able to buy regulated materials at chemical and biological lab suppliers. They'll be able to take out more loans then they are able to now, allowing them to further their lives here at the expense of even more Americans. Spitzer should be pilloried in public.

marilyn t , boston ma   November 5th, 2007 12:17 am ET

If Hillary ultimately gets elected, I look forward to the pundits lambasting her every day the way they do with bush. That's the ONLY thing I look forward to with her presidency IF she gets elected. and that's a big IF.

Chuck Woolery, Chicago   November 5th, 2007 12:01 am ET

Um..what broke-a*ss tomato picker, drywall taper, or hedge trimmer, who sends most of his or her check back to that person's country of origin after paying rock-bottom rent for the cheapest lodgings they could possibly find, will buy car insurance? Maybe we should pay for them! After all, for those millions who can afford minimum liability coverage, the kind of coverage that would pay for damage in real accident with a real American is totally unaffordable to the illegals, no matter what. You and possibly the state would still be picking up the bills, costing everyone tens of millions. In addition serious accidents with plaintiffs seeking large damage amounts from coverted illegals will ultimately be resolved by the illegals' packing up, selling off the assests, and forwarding their earnings home, where they will join it shortly. The fact that this is being discussed at all demonstrates that Democrats aren't involved in politics these days; they're involved in prostitution. Please remind your Democratic friends to take their medication and put their pants on before leraving the house in the morning.

my911call, North Carolina   November 4th, 2007 11:39 pm ET

I work with illegal immigrants on the state level.
Millions are already driving with out licenses.
Right now if the police stop them, they can give any name or address and just get a ticket and be on their way.
If your state is not along the border with Mexico, it cost hundreds/thousands of dollars and tons of paper work to deport some one, not including the possibility of putting children into social services.
And that's only if they are Mexican. Less other countries where deportation means flying them far beyond Mexico.
Many are from across the Atlantic, via over stayed visas.
Financially it makes more sense to document illegal ID's with licenses, but still allow immediate deportation for those who break the law.
Licenses protect American drivers (meaning you) by having the illegals pay and hold car insurance.
I am a strong fiscal conservative.
We can not let our passion over-ride logical spending when dealing with this problem.

Gladys, Pembroke Pines, Florida   November 4th, 2007 11:15 pm ET

As a woman, I depise this woman. She is a WIMP. Please say NO to Hillary, Don't vote for her. She is not good for our country.
Obama/Edward 2008!

Travis Nashville, TN   November 4th, 2007 11:05 pm ET

How bout instead of giving them licenses we kick them out of OUR country and they won't hit anybody? She says "So, you know, at some point we have to solve this problem because we're seeing all sorts of consequences. So thank you for being a witness to that. Thank you."Solve it by doing the right thing and sending them to their country. Calling and illegal immigrant an undocumented worker is like calling a drug dealer an unlicensed pharmacist.

Former Rightie, Pittsburgh   November 4th, 2007 11:01 pm ET

Hello – reality check ! They are here because they can get jobs. Jobs that Americans will not do, or else the jobs would not exist for them. For those of you willing to pay more for a head of lettuce, you'll get your chance as gas hits over $3/gallon and it's more expensive to get to you.

I like the comment about the National Guard watching the so called fence the Republican congress approved and never built. That would mean we would have to bring them home from W's oil war and Cheney's Big Business buddies would be oh so disappointed.

Let's get these people (yes, they are God's creation for those of you on high moral ground) legitimate and paying for all those expenses they are consuming (health care, etc…)

Like I said, you can't live with them and you can't live without them. You might as well make it work instead of fighting it.

Anyone who thinks we can round all these people up and send them back just has their head in the sand.

Ed,Ellenville,New York   November 4th, 2007 10:21 pm ET

Karen-Burger king left and we were happy to see it go. Death merchant. I have a multi-million dollar estate that was once a hotel,not just a house. (I wouldn't recommend downtown Ellenville for eating out,except the new tex-mex place.) My point in speaking out about this is that even the well off are getting screwed by the stupidity of the federal government. I have no doubt that dropping the SSA from the ID business would turn the majority of "undocumented americans" back into citizens and spotlight the illegals for actions against their illegal employers. That is the idea behind Spitzer's plan. I have a ridiculous amount of documentation that no longer counts at SSA. Why should legal citizens be turned into "illegals?" I have to assume that people like you that fear these illegals are being suckered into denying the voting rights of millions of legal citizens by clumping all "undocumented" citizens with illegal immigrants. I think that fingerprinting would solve this problem by ensuring the identity of all americans. You can buy a laptop with a fingerprint reader. Wouldn't it make sense that we use this technology to solve this issue? This whole "card" issue is silly. I'm being jerked around over a piece of cardboard that I had in my wallet when I was 14. Since when is this silly cardboard card worth more than the twelve pages of documents that worked before? Please join me and our state in creating a solution that doesn't rely on the corrupt SSA.

wes, indiana   November 4th, 2007 10:07 pm ET

it's quite evident the way that people feel about this issue, this no-brainer. if an illegal becomes documented they have in turn come out from the shadows. maybe this whole thing is a ploy to find our oh so terrible and dangerous illegals and send them packing. i think that they are a little too clever to get caught on account of this driver's license. how do we think they ended up here in the first place? sprung up from the ground? accidentally took the wrong bus?

Dade City   November 4th, 2007 9:08 pm ET

A move right out of the Carl Rove playbook, place shills in the audience to support a candidates position.

Did any reporter ask if the Clinton campaign made contact with them before they showed up at the public function?

Will, Norfolk VA   November 4th, 2007 8:47 pm ET

I would vote for a ham sandwhich dipped in feces instead of Hillary.

William   November 4th, 2007 8:41 pm ET

And the Academy Award goooooooooooos to Jolliffe in "BOO-HOO Politcs, boy did I screw the pooch" long name but excellent film, playing right now in our political arena. Are Clinton supporters that dumb?? I mean really they have got to be the ONLY ones that would believe that.

You have to admit though it was pretty hilarious to think that someone would actually believe that. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

TRM   November 4th, 2007 8:30 pm ET

These supposed "victims" are plants… I wonder how much Hillary paid them…

http://democratequalssocialist.wordpress.com/

Karen,ny   November 4th, 2007 8:25 pm ET

I feel that we should sent the illegal immigrants back to Mexico and put up the wall as soon as possible. We can use the national guard in towers to watch the borders day and night. This seems to be the only solution. We can start with the Mexican gangs and go from there.

Karen,ny   November 4th, 2007 8:05 pm ET

Well Hillary is on her way down. She can not have her cake and eat it too. I have to admit that I would be doing a disservice to my country if I was to vote for her. But, I do love my Democrats so I will still vote for a Democrat.

Colin742   November 4th, 2007 7:44 pm ET

Most commentators here are saying Hillary's answer to this question was wrong.
May I remind you that the six male canditates were asked if they agreed with her. Five of them agreed with her.
Why are you complaining just abot Hillary. Is it possible that these six knowledeable polititios are right and the one who disagreed and YOU are wrong

joy   November 4th, 2007 7:01 pm ET

Obama is for it he said i agree with senator clinton for not answering yes or no he agreed with her at the debate.

Many of the questions Senator Clinton is being critisized about for not answering yes or no, are questions that no one CAN honestly give a yes or a no answer to. Many things aren't black or white, like the drivers licenses to illegals. Certainly they shouldn't be given licenses because they are a privilege, but on the other hand, it would be a way to identify them. She is right on with her answers, and is intelligent enough, and responsible enough, to know there is more than one side to many of the problems she will face when she becomes president. Rather than just saying something to satisfy someone who in many cases isn't intelligent enough to understand what they are asking, she is being as honest as she knows how, on these difficult questions.
Hillary for president!! We need her.
Its a big problem to solve.

Walter, San Diego, CA   November 4th, 2007 6:55 pm ET

Illegals should not be here (illegally) period, license/no license. Justifications in political context to undermine a rule of law are unacceptable. Period.

Does anyone have a backbone anymore?

Karen,ny   November 4th, 2007 5:55 pm ET

ED, Ellenville..I bet you do have a house. I've been in Ellenville and it is so run down that even Burger King left.

Raman, Plano TX   November 4th, 2007 5:49 pm ET

— Elizabeth, Bartlett, TN
— Jed in Texas

I think both of you have right concerns about fraudulent use of Driver's License for purpose of providing voting rights to foreigners.

A little known fact about how a new technology is introduced in security sensitive processes of a country. A new technology is provided to countries whose leadership is ignorant about the risks of new technology or to group of users in US who are not really concerned about the security issue (Recall bionic security introduced in a primary school in a City of Colorado). Once the technology has enough users outside US, then those numbers are used to convince US leadership to use new technology.

A case in point, as Jed mention about the General ID. This General ID has been introduced in India by technology freaks who are least concerned about the security or social impact of the viral technologies. The result – recently when I visited my native country India, I discovered to my horror that my ID card had a name of Ravi Raman Kumar (my legal name is Raman Vig). When I reported to the concerned authorities in India, they refused to acknowledge the mistake and instead gave an explanation that their system may have been hacked by some miscreants. In absence of paper trail, I could have lost my identity in India.

The fallout of using voting machines/IDs without paper trail, could be that one day Americans wake to see a new flash (for some who do not know news flash is automatically shown on screen by computers) that Osama Bin Laden won Presidential General Elections, or Pervez Musharraf won a general election in India.

When I hear statements from leaders such as Sen. Hillary Clinton, Gov. Spitzer or President Bush about using an untested new technology in zeal and sportmanship spirit, I am surprised by the fact that our leadership is so ignorant to the dangers of calamity that can be caused by a hack or some crooked system professional.

Already we can see that now-a-days you have to carry insurance to protect yourself from identity theft such as fraudulent use of Social Security numbers, just because some brilliant hackers in good old day thought that people were honest and could be trusted to not misuse Social Security Numbers.

Wynter   November 4th, 2007 5:38 pm ET

I have to agree with Clinton on this one. It's easy to look at it and scream "No Way!", but when you look at things in more detail you see that it's not all Black and White.

The situation she is bringing up is that we have millions of undocumented workers in our country. Note that I said "workers". If we had an immigration system that worked then we wouldn't have any undocumented people in this country. But of course that isn't the case today. So do we turn everyone of these "workers" on the streets and out of work all at once? Talk about chaos. That would case a human disaster of epic proportions in each state in the union.

We need functional ways of handling these extraordinary problems that the federal government has put on our states. And I have to say, they are at least trying to work something out instead of pulling the plug on millions of people that need to drive to work to live.

Read More at http://wynterdragon.blogspot.com/2007/10/lou-dobbs-misses-point.html

Telling it like I see it,
Wynter

Me, Fullerton, CA   November 4th, 2007 5:34 pm ET

Former rightie,

The Americans have been living for long without even you the illegal immigrants are here. Did we die or collapse because there were no you the illegal immigrants? Absolutely not!

You guys the illegal immigrants contribute nothing but pains! If you compare what you have contributed versus what you have taken from this nation, which one will be bigger? Of course what you have taken from this country is much much bigger than what you have given. Let me name some: healthcare expenses, crimes, taxes, traffic accidents, reserve due to outgoing money to your country, childcare expenses, nurseries, and many many more. You guys the illegal immigrants just like wild seed in our green grass. That wild seeds are better be removed and burned if the green grass wants to survive.

James, Minneapolis, MN   November 4th, 2007 4:53 pm ET

If required to provide proof of insurance to receive a driver’s license, Illegals will simply provide forged documents showing they have insurance which of course they won’t have. This will continue putting legal citizens at risk both personally and financially while giving the Illegals better access to benefits and a backdoor path towards citizenship. The person who wants to be the next president should be informing the legal citizens about how they intend improve things in this country, not pandering the Illegals in order to get some extra votes just to get elected into office.

Robbie, La Mesa, CA   November 4th, 2007 4:50 pm ET

Amen, Gary! Former Rightie is full of it. Our economy was robust and strong well before illegals arrived. According to a recent university study, illegals cost the citizens of San Diego County $100 million a year. Yes, I'll gladly pay more for fresh produce and housekeeping services, thank you.

Ed,Ellenville,New York   November 4th, 2007 4:36 pm ET

RT 52 avenger-I'm still waiting. I've been here all day. Coward!

Sarah   November 4th, 2007 4:07 pm ET

And she still avoided the question!

Gary, Detroit, Mich.   November 4th, 2007 3:59 pm ET

FORMER RIGHTIE…

That's a crock. Not all Americans view these jobs as beneath them. What they view beneath them is working for 50 cents or a dollar an hour which is what many of the illegals will work for. It is they who have driven the wages so low. Many of them are paid cash with no taxes withheld. I for one would rather pay a little more for that head of lettuce if that meant more employment for REAL citizens, more cops on the streets and less vacant homes in my neighborhood.

Former Rightie, Pittsburgh   November 4th, 2007 3:15 pm ET

For those of you who want to send all illegals back, please go to your fridge and pitch all fruits, vegetables, peanut butter, etc… Take your own cleaning supplies to the next hotel you stay at and find transportation on a business trip other than a taxi. The illegals you want to send back do these jobs that Americans view as beneath them. You can't live with them and you can't live without them. We need to recognize the reality that these people provide a necessary labor pool in US. Finding a way for them to be accounted for and pay taxes makes more sense than cleaning the toilet yourself every time you travel.

As much as I think Bush is the worse President ever (I'm entitled to this opinion having voted for him 2x), his connections to big business are right on this topic. The farming and servicing industry would crash without this labor pool.

Ed,Ellenville,New York   November 4th, 2007 2:48 pm ET

I hate to tell you,but they already get a path to citizenship in the military.

Gary, Detroit, Mich   November 4th, 2007 2:39 pm ET

E-mail your comments to Eliot Spitzer at http://www.ny.gov or in as much as that bonehead prefers our comments in writing, fax him at 518-474-1513.

pbj, San Ramon, CA   November 4th, 2007 2:23 pm ET

If illegals want a driver's license — or any other right or privilege of US citizenship — let them earn it with a two year stint in the armed forces. THAT should be their "path to citizenship" — earn some sweat equity in this country.

Gary, Detroit, Mich.   November 4th, 2007 2:05 pm ET

Spitzer is insane. Clinton is insane. If you had to climb over a fence, crawl through a tunnel or hide in the back of a truck in order to get into this country you are not wanted here. Go back. And take Spitzer and Clinton with you. If this crap keeps up there will be civil war in this country.

Greg, Houston, Texas   November 4th, 2007 2:04 pm ET

I can't believe this. The solution is not to give them any form of a license. The solution, if they are here ILLEGALLY, is to send them back to the country they came from to wait in line with the rest of the immigrants that want to come here. For right now it may be logistically difficult to go look for illegal immigrants, but if they compound their illegal status with ANY form of breaking the law and they fall in our hands, then they certainly need to be deported, except for certain crimes where they should be incarcerated here. Sending them back to their country is not a guarantee that they won't just come right back. And lets get those boarder sealed, come on guys. Who is in charge, the illegal aliens or the US Government? I am really fed up that our government is not addressing this issue. Why can't we start enforcing the laws?

ray, madison, w.i.   November 4th, 2007 1:34 pm ET

Another clintoon non-answer. Parse that sentence, hil!

Robert G. Irvine, CA   November 4th, 2007 1:12 pm ET

is the driver's license a "gift" or will the recipient pay a fee??

Potential fees can add up to several million $$ for state coffers!!

Ed,Ellenville,New York   November 4th, 2007 1:07 pm ET

Keith,Greenville, Under the patriot act and regulations of homeland security, the SSA has been barred from using data from their own system from verifying identity. Even though I have a valid # and the original stub to prove it,they refuse to give me a new copy of my card,citing these regulations. Further, the DMV's are being barred from issuing licenses or county ID without a card from the SSA,citing the same regulations. Without a government issued ID,you cannot obtain a passport,fly,drive,bank, or even buy beer at shoprite. This entire corruption of our security is intended to enhance the voter ID laws to revoke the rights of citizens to vote. If I weren't wealthy and well known to my politicians,my life would be much more severely impacted. Luckily I don't need to sell my home,because I can't under these restrictions. Right now,it would be nice to re-finance out of an adjustable rate equity loan,but I'll survive. This situation is ludicrous as my fingerprints are on file. It's all just corrupt politics. The suggestion of leaving the country and sneaking back doesn't solve the problem. I've thought about that,I still couldn't access my assets. When they pass legislation to round us all up as "illegals" I might have to make that sacrifice to preserve my liberty. You can confirm my plight with Sen. Clinton's office. Every day I run to get my mail in hopes of getting a tiny piece of cardboard that would restore my citizenship. I think it's time for fingerprints instead. I hope that clears it up for you, it certainly doesn't make sense. Logic and reason seem to be lacking in our nation's security apparatus.

Dan, Mountain View CA   November 4th, 2007 12:57 pm ET

From 160 posts I saw, 99% agree that illegal immigrants should never get tolerated. I absolutely agree that whoever has broken the law must never get amnesty. Deportation will be the right justice. Don't get fooled by any moral values such mother and kids or whatsoever.

I'm just wondering from those of you who don't agree with illegal immigrants, why you are hiding? Show off your support, don't be silent! Speak out to this nation that every law must be enforced. Join in every anti illegal immigrants groups. Without your explicit supports, it will be hard for us to fight the illegal immigrants because the illegal immigrants will fight to their last drop of blood to get their rights in the US. So, the choice is with you, fellow Americans.

PM Oldsmar,FL   November 4th, 2007 12:40 pm ET

You all might be interested in this current Parade Magazine poll concerning whether Photo I.D. cards should be required to vote, which parallels this illegal immigrant issue being discussed here.
http://www.parade.com/opencms/do/comments?contentPath=/articles/editions/2007/edition_11-04-2007/Intelligence_Report&pagenumberflag=0

Mike , Panama City , FL   November 4th, 2007 12:38 pm ET

Just because they use the word illegal immigrant driver , makes it seem like it is a much worst crime then a citizen hitting somebody

It depends on the driver not the status of citizenship

so are they now trieng to say that all illegal immigrants are bad drivers?

ridiculous !

Gary, NY   November 4th, 2007 12:37 pm ET

I don't get it. Because some people got hit by unlicensed illegal immigrants so we are going to hand out license to all illegal immigrants as a solution. But there are more people got hit by licensed legal immigrants. What are we going to do about that? Are we going to take away licenses of all legal immigrants?

Greg, Phoenix, AZ   November 4th, 2007 12:36 pm ET

Turn out the lights, Hill, the party is OVER…

Uma, mpls, MN   November 4th, 2007 12:32 pm ET

Except some sick people every one knows immigration is not a easy issue and no politician can answer in 30 seconds and yes no statement.

Hill you are doing alright, continue to do it. We will defeat Edward and Barak Hussein Obama hate machine.

Mike, Londonderry NH   November 4th, 2007 12:30 pm ET

It's very simple people…!

Isn't it pretty obvious by now.. BOTH parties WANT illegal aliens to continue to flow into this country. As does biz that profit from cheap labor. As does the Catholic Church because most of the flow comes from Catholic Mexico.

The American people are stuck in the middle. Until voices are seriously raised politicians and lobby groups will continue to back the steady flow of illegal aliens. It is the future voter base for BOTH parties and neither party wants to stop the flow.

In the end America will be changed and taxpayers will be asked to fork over the $$$ – it's pretty clear which way this country is heading. Illegal Alien groups demand more..and more and the American people just sit in their homes and WATCH.

jmaya, iowa   November 4th, 2007 12:29 pm ET

Immigration issue is not a black and white issue. If it is Obama and Edward they will say the way wind is blowing. Hillary knows it is tough issue and she wants it to be right so she need to do more consultation and discussion so she can't answer it in yes or no statement.

Hill you are doing your best, continue to do it. There are some sick people who hate you and some are Barak Hussein OBama and Edward machine run Hilary haters. I will never vote these two men.

Charles in Orem, Utah   November 4th, 2007 12:24 pm ET

A lot of responders seen to have suggested mass deportation of illegals as the first step in fixing the problem. If we're talking about illegal Mexicans and sending them back to Mexico, that won't work. Many of those who HAVE been deported previously (usually following a criminal conviction) simply return to the porous border and re-enter the country within a few days or weeks, assume a new fake identity, and melt away into the undocumented underground.

If we're going to get serious about deporting these people, who says they need to be sent at taxpayer expense back to their country of origin? I say deport them all to IRAQ, and solve two problems at once. One: deported persons who have broken the law by entering the US once will have a much harder time doing it a second time. Two: Iraqi culture would then have to find a way to assimilate an influx of 15-20 million Spanish speaking non-Muslims who are willing to "do the work ordinary Iraquis are not willing to do", thus dramatically altering the dynamics of Iraq's sectarian rivalries and offering a chance for more stability.

I see a win/win here. Anybody?

Traci Robbins Jacksonville Fl   November 4th, 2007 12:05 pm ET

I agree that something needs to be done. That something is to get illegals out of America. I work at a hospital and the self pay is massive. Who ends up paying for that. Americans do. Hilary will no do that. On June 6th there was a vote to make English the official language of the United States of America. Hilary voted NO! How dare she. This is America we speak english. Lets go to France and demand that English be the offical language. A vote for Hilary is a vote against America the land of english speaking people.

Bob, Roxboro, NC   November 4th, 2007 12:04 pm ET

Here's a suggestion to all you Americans who need a break:

Get a passport, go to Mexico,,,toss your passport in the trash,,,swim back across the border,,,sign up for every social program and perk you can think of,, keep saying for 10 years,,"no habla, no habla.

Do this, and your responsibilities as a citizen will beso few as not worth mentioning.

Thanks again Government!

Bob, Roxboro, NC   November 4th, 2007 11:58 am ET

Ohhhh, so if illegals have licenses they would be compelled to also have insurance! I fail to see the connection. If doing what's legal made any difference to these criminals, the problem would not exist in the first place.
Recently, my friend had an accident. She was hit broadside by a legal driver. Her car was totaled and neither her insurance nor the other driver's insurance is willing to pay for the covered damage. Let's see,,, both drivers are insured and the insurance companies refuse to settle any claims.
This government has thrown us to the dogs at every level! So go ahead, license the illegals,,open a whole new world of fraud and cost to the few hapless Americans who continually pick up the tab.

Ethan, Brooklyn, NY   November 4th, 2007 11:57 am ET

The total sum of ignorance on this board is absolutely astounding. Hillary will be our President, and THANKFULLY, this country will FINALLY have some domestic and international leadership. I know this is a difficult issue for people to understand — especially when you have numbnuts idiots screaming bloody murder to 'deport the illegals' — but anyone who can discern fact from fiction will realize that giving illegal immigrants will greatly benefit the city of New York in keeping track of the million people who are totally under the radar (a VERY important security measure) AND it will increasingly protect those who become victims of incidents involving undocumented individuals.

This measure is NOT a benefit for illegals so much as it is SECURITY and PROTECTION for legal citizens.

P, Buffao, NY   November 4th, 2007 11:52 am ET

i agree that we should try to document those who are here illegally to get them "into a system", but a driver's license is NOT the way. why couldn't a basic, non-driver's license suffice ? I do agree with the insurance correlation…just b/c they can drive, might not mean that they have adequate insurance, and that hurts other drivers. Furthermore, as a true US citizen, providing such a privilege is a slap in our faces, as we went through a process.

Lorenz, Queens, NY   November 4th, 2007 11:49 am ET

Can anybody say – "STAGED"

Jane   November 4th, 2007 11:46 am ET

Ok1ahoma House Bill 1804
Oklahoma has set the stage.
Immigration reform
This is the United States I remember.
Give me back my home,my laws are not to be Broken.

Ed,Ellenville,New York   November 4th, 2007 11:44 am ET

No Joe, the intention is to implement security in our government. The opposition keeps throwing illegitimate issues like guns and voting in an attempt to prevent states from identifying who is here legally. I'm a registered voter with ample documentation to prove my status,but the Bush administration has re-defined the term "documented" to suit their purpose of denying legal residents their rights. The supreme court is about to hear arguments on the legality of voter ID laws that would take away my right to vote. There are 20 million more democrats than there are republicans,so it's no coincidence that there are an estimated 20 million supposedly "undocumented americans". This has to do with the ability of states to determine which people are citizens and which people are not,and the protection of the voting rights of lawful US citizens like myself who are being denied the rights of citizenship. The voting system in NYS relies upon cross-checking records,not the whim of corrupt political hacks in the SSA. No reasonable person could deny my existence with all the actual documentation I have. In conversations with SSA officials I've learned that there are millions of us and we make up the majority if not the entirety of these "undocumented americans" and that illegals do not fall into this category. Illegals are not american citizens,nor are they legal residents of our nation. Get your head out of the sand and push for security of our legitimate citizens.

JB Boston MA   November 4th, 2007 11:44 am ET

I'm no politician, but here is a PROBLEM with Clinton's plan, and a SOLUTION.

First, when the illegals receive a license, they will be able to vote and purchase guns. NO THANK YOU CLINTON! I know you want those illegal votes from those illegal immigrants, but NO.

The solution, make illegals get an ID that does not give them the right to drive. If an illegal is found wihtout this ID, they are automatically deported. If they have the ID, weren't committing a crime when found, there is a hearing to determine if they are upstanding citizens, no scratch that, humans. If they are, the ID is stamped with an expiration date. During the period of time up until the expiration date, they can pursue citizenship, and come out of the "shadows" that we hear so much about.

Problem Solved

Martin, Redwood City, CA   November 4th, 2007 11:31 am ET

Somebody should change the title of this story. This was hardly a confrontation. It shows Hillary is connecting to people to whom this issue is truly important,…as opposed to other candidates. Life is not always black and white, issues can be difficult to talk about simply because they are complex. The last person who tried to make difficult issues simple was George Bush,…talking about axis of evil, saying countries are either for us or against us etc. I prefer somebody who see both sides of an issue with an open mind and then make a decision when it is time. And actually show up for that vote!

TheInsider   November 4th, 2007 11:22 am ET

But then isn't that their real intention to get illegals to vote for them?
Posted By Joe Buffalo NY : November 4, 2007 10:23 am

I don't know about illegals, but it looks like the republicans have the, didn't pass civics class", vote locked up.
Illegals understand the constitution better than this fine example of arrogant, opinionated, ignorance.

Jeff M , Plano, TX   November 4th, 2007 11:12 am ET

This is unseemly. The illegals should not have the opportunity to drive, have insurance, or to run down US citizens.

David, Encinitas, CA   November 4th, 2007 11:10 am ET

This is truly a difficult issue. However, the idea of providing illegal aliens with benefits of any kind is not satisfactory. I think we as a nation need to face up to the fact that we need immigrants in this country, and need to change our immigration policy to meet the demands of certain industries such as agriculture. But providing drivers licenses to illegals, or free health care, or housing or whatever at the expense of the taxpayer is NOT ok. Change the system to make them legal taxpayers, only then provide the perks that go with residency.

Wayne, Greenville TX   November 4th, 2007 11:09 am ET

Obama has missed 80% of the votes since September. He's not doing his job. What makes you think he'll do his job if he gets elected president.

Posted By Rodney Dallas, TX : November 4, 2007 12:55 am

JOhn McCain has a worse voting record than any other Senator except Tim Johnson, who's been recovering from a brain hemorrhage. In short, John McCain is not doing his job. What makes you think he'll do his job if he gets elected president???

Rex, Toledo, Ohio   November 4th, 2007 11:04 am ET

Illegal Immigration wasn't even an issue with most Americans until the Government told them it was. Sheep…..

David, Fort Myers, FL   November 4th, 2007 11:03 am ET

My blazer was destroyed by a hit and run of an illegal immigrant. I was able to tell the police where she lived but then the other men in the house told the officer no female lived there…. I watched her go in. The law is a joke.

Keith, Greenville, SC   November 4th, 2007 10:53 am ET

Ed from Ellenville.
I'm a little curious as to how you can have a valid birth certificate showing you were born in the USA and still be considered and illegal alien. Would you please explain that a little more?

Larry Kinnan, Stow, Ohio   November 4th, 2007 10:51 am ET

As many have pointed out, this is a clear catering to illegals to garner votes via the motor voter registration in New York and other states.

Illegal is still illegal. Democrats when faced with enforcing the law shrink away from it or pervert it to their own gains.

Linda Peterson, Reno, Nevada   November 4th, 2007 10:48 am ET

This is Geo. W. Bush's problem for letting them in the country.

This is not Hillary Clinton's problem (anyway not yet).

Robbie, La Mesa, CA   November 4th, 2007 10:46 am ET

You know what illegals do? They get driver's insurance, get their driver's licenses, and then cancel the insurance. Yeah, that solves the problem!

For the first time ever, I won't be voting for a Democrat for president. I want someone who is going to serve the citizens of this country, not someone who is going to kowtow to the lawbreakers who entered here illegally.

Repeal the 17th amendment - Memphis, TN   November 4th, 2007 10:45 am ET

What BS. You know Hillary's campaign seeded those people in the audience. Anyone who thinks that drivers licenses are going to make illegal aliens more responsible or accountable is an idiot.

Raman, Plano TX   November 4th, 2007 10:44 am ET

"For an American citizen to vote as a German-American, an Irish-American, or an English-American, is to be a traitor to American institutions; and those hyphenated Americans who terrorize American politicians by threats of the foreign vote are engaged in treason to the American Republic." — Theodore Roosevelt, 1915.

Since Theodore Roosevelt did not include African-American, Latino-American, Undocumented-American in his list, all these hypenated Americans can enjoy the privilege of being Patriotic-American and can continue to support Illegal-American.

Montie Arkel, US Army Ret. Lawton, Oklahoma   November 4th, 2007 10:43 am ET

Mrs. Clinton indicates that "the federal government has failed." So, who's she pointing the finger at? I believe she's a member of the Federal Government. Where has she been all these years? I guess the Republicans are the only ones that pass Laws and make things happen. She sure is a winner!?

Elizabeth, Mt. Kisco, NY   November 4th, 2007 10:41 am ET

The illegal immigrants should not be on the road to begin with because they are breaking the law. My suggestion to the drivers that were hit, get compensation from the State. They are allowing ILLEGAL people to drive on our roadways. We have existing laws that are not being enforced. DO YOUR JOB HILLARY and SPITZER NOW! Enforce the existing laws.

Joe Buffalo NY   November 4th, 2007 10:23 am ET

Neither Hillary nor Elliot Spitzer have cleared up how New York's motor voter law will weed out illegals from registering to vote when they sign up for driver's licenses.

But then isn't that their real intention to get illegals to vote for them?

Ed,Ellenville,New York   November 4th, 2007 10:16 am ET

Thank you Lee, This issue was just an annoyance until this summer when my bank decided to make me an "unknown financial entity" and cut me off from my assets. Despite having a birth certificate,marriage license,business license,expired passports and permits(that cannot now be renewed)medical insurance,homeowner's insurance,tax records(both federal and property),credit cards,utility bills,and membership cards,and yes voter registration, I am being called "undocumented." This is insanity that this administration is engaged in. It's time to end it now by requiring fingerprinting for real ID,my prints have been on file at the pentagon for over twenty years. I'm not afraid to give them.

Hi! Flint, MI   November 4th, 2007 10:11 am ET

"The federal government has failed," well, isn't she part of the federal government? So, is this like a confession of fault, or did she only mean the executive branch–because we all know congress can never seem to get anything done ;)

sevens7777 Frisco, Tx   November 4th, 2007 10:11 am ET

Here's what we need to do, just like the Sheriff did to OZZY. Tell the illegals they can come in and get a license, get there names and photos, stick them on a bus and send them back. Don't ya like this plan??????????

Lee, Des Moines, IA   November 4th, 2007 9:58 am ET

Dudes, I was not a frigging "plant". I'm sure the campaign would like to strangle me right now for bringing this issue up again. I'm just a noisy woman out $1000 bucks from being hit by an unlicensed driver. But yeah, even if we "give" licenses (wouldn't that include passing a DRIVER'S TEST??), no illegal in their right mind would "take" them anyway, b/c I for one would send those here illegallyl right back where they came from. Let's straighten up Bush's godawful immigration mess, and then let in some of these folks who've waited years to come here–or re-legalize people like the one who spoke up here–legally here but "declared" illegal by Bush!

Rose, Stanford, Ct   November 4th, 2007 9:56 am ET

Ladies– this woman doesn't represent us. She's a twisted and distorted politician who doesn't have the capacity to be our president. I'm all for a woman president, but not HER. She's not a truthful person, she's not honest, and I wouldn't trust her to watch my dog. She has no position on the issues and has demonstrated that she'll do anything to achieve power. I can't figure out who the real Hillary is.. the truth is, I don't think she wants me to know who she is. Unfortunate, I wanted to vote for a lady. She's not a lady.

Rose

ed   November 4th, 2007 9:53 am ET

boy talk about a setup plant to have a subject brought up that never would have normally been talked about.. mmm I remember this was pulled int he past with another Dem and was busted for that

BeProudAmerica, Kansas City, Mo   November 4th, 2007 9:50 am ET

Fine, Hillary keep that attitude, it will make it easy for the Republicans to win the general election in 08. Liberals love hearing this talk, 'the man' holding you down, not giving you a chance which will give her the Democratic nominiation, but the majority of Americas have spoken that they are against giving ILLEGAL immigrants rights afforded to AMERICANS. By keeping this stance will help guarantee a Republican winning the White House in the Fall or 2008.

Hugh Jass, Atlanta, GA   November 4th, 2007 9:48 am ET

Typical lib position. Change the law to accommodate the criminal. Lower education standards, force quotas for college entrance and employment. It's called reverse discrimination.
Can anyone post a list of Clinton's accomplishments as a senator?

Ed,Ellenville,New York   November 4th, 2007 9:46 am ET

RT 52-avenger-you better be careful about who you call a liar.

Barbara Doyle   November 4th, 2007 9:40 am ET

Hey! Nick from Eden Prairie. Where did you get the idea that drivers' licenses are free? You have to PASS A TEST in order to get one and pay for it. This would help to get self-taught drivers off the streets and into a com- puter system. Also remember that as long as we are talking about something as obviously sensible as this we are NOT talking about the totally non-sensible war in Iraq

Laura, Raleigh, NC   November 4th, 2007 9:40 am ET

total plant job
no reasonable person would come to that conclusion about this issue

so it would be better if they had driver's licenses because they would have car insurance? (which most of us buy because we'll probably never need it) now they can reckless drive and drive up insurance costs– great plan

Michael, Houston, TX   November 4th, 2007 9:40 am ET

Hillary is one of the most intelligent candidates out there, but she has no character. Having lived overseas and seen firsthand what happens when an elected official has intelligence but no character, I can say that character is much more important than intelligence.

Hillary is without character.

Mike, Houston, TX   November 4th, 2007 9:37 am ET

Mrs. Clinton is so out of touch that she thinks that a drivers licenses are a federal problem. During a Mrs. Clinton adminisration, we will see an even larger expansion of federal power over the citizens and states. Drivers license a "federal failure"? Beware America, Mrs. Clinton will institute a national identification card. She will defend it to support socialized medical services (hello Cuba), homeland security (hello Myanmar), and to more easily track down her "enemies". Expect increased "vigilence" from the IRS, etc. This woman is just awful.

Karen,ny   November 4th, 2007 9:37 am ET

Jerry Weed..Just remember this: If you vote for a Republican you are voting for..war, econonmy collapse,high gas prices,poison eveything from China, and the list is endless!

Chris Orlando, FL   November 4th, 2007 9:35 am ET

Excellent…the end of the Billary campaign has begun.

She better come up with more handouts for you Libs to beg for.

Rick, North Carolina   November 4th, 2007 9:30 am ET

Why should these lawless people be given a license to drive, they are already liars and theives of our system. If they are willing to sneak across our borders, then what makes you think they will follow the laws of the land anyhow?
The source of the problem – business people that hire them, they have the support of our goverment. The politicians are only puppets of business and do not work for the citizens.
I wish this country had a third political party that worked for the people only, they would get my support and vote. Am I the only one that gets tired of seeing politicans playing games with our lives?

Loren, Reno, Nevada   November 4th, 2007 9:28 am ET

This story is CNN slanted for sure. Living in Nevada, a state full of illegals, a license can be obtained without insurance by anyone, and even if they do obtain a policy to get their vehicle registration, they cancel it immediately after they get the plates and then ignore letters to surrender their plates.

Deport illegals, don't pander them.

MC - Atlanta, GA   November 4th, 2007 9:19 am ET

As much as people on the right will hate to admit it – she's right. A drivers license means a paper trail, means identifying these illegals.

People on the right always act on emotinon and oppose things like this, and gay marriage, flag burning, etc without thinking about the issues at a deeper level. Perfect example right here.

AGAINST THE WIND   November 4th, 2007 9:18 am ET

Oh, according to some people we should give the illegals licenses, voting, citizenship and why not just move out of our dwellings so that the illegals can have them to. We can all move down to Mexico and let them have our country.

bob   November 4th, 2007 9:15 am ET

does anyone know where clinton stands on any issue..? she's against the war but for it..? her deceitful past will come back to haunt her, and her present technique of dodging every important issue will soon annoy and alienate every intelligent voter out there… anybody but clinton..!

Brian Tampa   November 4th, 2007 9:13 am ET

"The federal government has failed"

Your husband was President for 8 years and you are a US Senator, doesn't that mean you have failed. Hillary wants as many illegals as possible, it means more votes for her.

Ed,Ellenville,New York   November 4th, 2007 9:11 am ET

Rt 52 avenger- Come by my estate and I'll explain it too you. I'll show you why your nazi tactics won't work. I doubt you have the guts to face me because you don't even leave your name,coward. I have twelve pages of documentation to prove I'm a citizen. None of them are accepted by SSA because it's a corrupted republican political machine now. If you know me then come and face me.

RD   November 4th, 2007 9:07 am ET

Too those who say Clinton was trying to be honest and is facing the needs of this country to Give Illegal Drivers license so they will have insurance. An immigrant should be required to come into this country legally. Have a workers Id, Pay Taxes, Speak ENGLISH. and abide by the law. Most can't speak ENGlish and don't have a clue what the LAW really is. If they are illegal they should be deported. If they come legally give them a tempory drivers license if they Can pass a drivers test. Which would require them to speak and read English so they could read the traffic signs. I am not against people from other countries coming here to work but that should not give them a right to recieve special benifits that the full blooded americans can't even get. No tax cut for starting a business for being a minority. No right to VOTE. And NO permanant Residence IN THIS Country. only TEMPORARY Work permits We Can not help that they have it Bad in there own country. I Do dissagree with president Bush's amnesty plan on immigration. But President Bush did have a plan that was awesome Before he had to devote his whole presidency to protecting this country After 9-11. Before 9-11 he was meeting with the Mexican Goverment to try to raise their minimum wage, Make things better in Mexico. People in mexico that come to this country are just trying to make a living for their families. What a great ideal you raise their minimum wage there will be no need to come to the US to work. and Guess what you raise their minimum wage american companies that send work to mexico because they can get it done cheaper will leave the work in the USA because they can't get cheap labor. What an Ideal. If clinton HAd a clue she might get my vote. Don't forget she also is in favor of giving illegal aliens health care for free. ONLY IN USA.

Danielle Flower, Portland, Oregon   November 4th, 2007 9:04 am ET

I, too was hit by an illegal driver. I was turning into the law school for my last class of my first semester. I was going 5 mph – he was going 69 mph. I spent 4 months in the hospital. I suffered a brain injury. My insurance company was not willing to pay my uninsured motorist coverage for over a year, until they got a letter from a lawyer (I had a few resources in that department). I feel worse for the other driver. I'd love to get him a message that I'm okay, but I am reapplying to law school and working full-time so not now. He was 19. My guess is that if we'd allow them to obtain insurance they would be more prudent about it than we are.

DEF, Norfolk Virginia   November 4th, 2007 9:03 am ET

I believe Obama, and Edwards, have her number. She will not stand firm, and she's telling all of us that now. What isn't "firm" will remain so, as a result of "Hillary" (a by – product of "Slick Willy"). The same way she would "lead" ??? I don't think so.., actually.., (based on her track record) I am sure.

Widget, Camden NJ   November 4th, 2007 9:01 am ET

This is not really an issue about what is sensible to do about the obvious things relating to illegal aliens such as costs to state and federal infrastructure, homeland security, employers who victimize both fellow citizens and illegals or any of that. The logical answer to the license thing is again obvious, it's for citizens or temporary visiting (or green carded) foreigners. Also obvious is what is likely to occur if licenses are given inappropriately to people who illegally entered the country, typically break safe housing laws AND DMV laws, overload vehicles and housing, take advantage of any handout in medical or schooling or welfare they can and all the while sending money back to Mother Mexico while pretending to be Warriors retaking land which is actually theirs to begin with.

No, all of that is secondary.

Primary is the recognition of the Rule of the Constitution which says that Anchor Babies are not Citizens. And the heartbreaking (Oooh!) cases of good students who get nice houses and begin 2rd generation ILLEGAL households who whine about being 'restricted' because of 'undocumented status' who risk deportation.

Well, America is the Home of the Free…Citizens ARE free to starve if they blow it by the rules, breaking the rules is just that. Changing rules to suit illegality is not the Rule of Law, especially when those Rules are challenged by non-Citizens.

Again, the license thing is obvious. A 'minor detail' that suggests just how obviously wrong it is, is the part about NOT having to submit a SS#, and also about the ability to REGISTER TO VOTE JUST LIKE A REAL CITIZEN on the very same form.

But that's secondary. Primary, and messier, is the clear thought of what to do with the results of illegal activity in this country by aliens, those born here who still do not qualify as Citizens by the Constitution.

Chew THAT one up and swallow it, if you can. Illegal is Illegal until somebody revises the Dictionary. Perhaps in Spanish it says something different?

Karen,ny   November 4th, 2007 9:00 am ET

We have had a bellyfull of this Elliot Spitzer and this giving drivers licenses to illegal immigrants. This just makes me furious, it is unbelievable how Hillary can pander to such nonsense. I will not except this at all. Not a citizen-no license!!! I am sorry Hillary, but I do not agree with you on this one.

Jason, Washington DC   November 4th, 2007 8:58 am ET

This sounds so staged!

Terry, El Paso, TX   November 4th, 2007 8:57 am ET

Perhaps some of you watched the Desperate Housewives episode in which Gabrielle (Eva Longoria) had an affair with a neighborhood teenager who did yard work for her. She became pregnant but didn't know whether the teenager or her husband was the father.

The USA has been having an affair with Mexico for more than a century. America is now pregnant with the results of the affair: 13 million (or more) illegal immigrants. Mexican workers in large numbers were used to lay track for the railroads after the Civil War. Since then, we have routinely imported cheap labor by the hundreds of thousands, then millions, to work in construction, the garment industry, factories, and agriculture. In the southwest, access to a cheap illegal Mexican maid and yard man have been considered a civil right for a hundred years. I speculate that a majority of Southwesterners who oppose illegal immigration will have a Mexican maid cleaning their houses, cooking their food, and caring for their children tomorrow. They have employed her for years and will continue to do so, all the while opposing illegal immigration.

Anyone who has read a history book during the last century could have predicted that this growing problem would eventually reach a crisis point. Our leaders did not look ahead for the long term consequences but looked instead at this month's profits. The voters (you and me) who kept them in office enjoyed cheap prices, so we chose not to solve the problem in years past when it could have been solved.

Having lived and worked alongside illegal immigrants all our lives, we now pretend to be shocked that they exist. They picked the lettuce and tomatos that will be on your hamburger at lunch tomorrow. They built your house. They are cleaning your child's school. They work in your day care center. They are driving the car in the freeway lane next to yours. They will put linens on your bed and scramble your eggs the next time you stay in a hotel. Their children are American citizens.

To deport these people, we would have to suspend the Constitution for a while, in imitation of our ally Pakistan, so that our police can kick in the doors to any home in America in a warrantless search for them. It would take a decade or two to round them all up. Then we could pack them sixty to a box car in 225,000 box cars, nail the doors shut with five million nails, and ship them to Laredo, El Paso, and San Diego for deportation (assuming that Mexico agrees to accept them, which I doubt). Costs would be enormous. In addition to the taxes needed to support an extra million Bureau of Immigration employees, detention camps to house and feed millions of prisoners, and Justice Department employees to handle 13 million court cases, we would have to hire expensive American employees to replace them in our schools, street departments, day care centers, factories, and fields. The cost of housing, food, education, day care, and government would skyrocket. During this process, millions of them would be streaming back across our borders to resume their lives and jobs here.

In short, we really enjoyed our affair with Mexico but we got pregnant. We even tried to ignore the pregnancy, but now the labor pains have started. It is too late for a cultural abortion. We're going to have to raise our baby.

Hank, Fort Myers, FL   November 4th, 2007 8:56 am ET

We must stop the flood of illegals coming into the country first. This thread is ridiculous. Drivers licenses are a moot point–people here illegally won't get one anyway–does anyone really believe that illegal aliens will line up to have their photos and addresses on a dbase for the government to come and pick them up? Go ahead..pass the legislation–the few knuckleheads who actually show up at the DMV will have minimal impact to NY state funs–or improving overall highway safety. The only possible gain in this plan is political. Sounds like something the Bush Administration would have created–illogical, minimal real impact for improving the lives of average Americans, probably unfunded.

Steve - Austin, TX   November 4th, 2007 8:52 am ET

Something needs to change here…I have also been hit by an illegal alien…who then left the vehicle and fled on foot after the accident. Didn't even stop to see if I or my then pregnant wife were ok.

I'm not sure if it's providing drivers licenses or what, but the system right now is wrong. My insurance paid for the accident…which was unfair for them and for me. I get higher premiums as a result.

The problem right now is – illegals are here, and with the current system there's an incentive to commit additional crimes to not get caught for being here…this needs to change. There needs to be some sort of resident work status or something to get this sorted out

Sue, Louisville, CO   November 4th, 2007 8:45 am ET

What are you all talking about? Here in Colorado illegals have a car insurance plan – if there is an accident they get out of their cars and run away.

Giving illegals a driver license is just a way to allow them to vote and it's shameful that our politicians are allowing this and actually trying to implement it. Don't just whine about it – call your congressmen and all the presidential candidates and tell them how you feel.

al, San Francisco, CA   November 4th, 2007 8:42 am ET

Based on CNN's news clip at least, it is shameful that obama and edwards did not express their position, other than criticing hillary for her position. As ususal, they are monday nite quarterback, taking no action, and complaining afterwards taking an opposite side of every argument. Any fools and complain and condemn. That stems from their inexperioence and indecisiveness.

Yeah, obama is the most absentee senator of the presidential rate. While many other presidenttial candidates could attend the votes, I just fail to understand obama's excuse. As many other senators were notified about the votes at the same time, you guys can find any lame excuse for him. The truth is that Obama has recently missed 80% of all senate votes.

The american voters should not let this lazy (yes lazy at home at least per michelle obama) and inexperienced senator to be the next president.

Life is not just black and white, and there are grey areas that cannot be answered with a yes or no, including the license issue for illegals. There are always two sides of every coin. Only simple people want a simple answer. The issue of licensing isnt simple and hillary is experienced enough to say what she said.

Anonymous, Yorktown, VA   November 4th, 2007 8:34 am ET

Thanks "RC" from Roanoke, VA, is agree with you. I distrust the Clintons so much, my first thought was there must have been "plants" in the audience. It's a shame that I, and others, are so cynical of the Clintons to be always suspicious of their motives. I can not think of more phony, disengenuous politicians today.

Bob Gardinor Highland, New York   November 4th, 2007 8:30 am ET

Again this is stupid. These people are illegal, thats why they are not documentated.
The last time I looked in the dictionary illegal meant prohibited by law. Is government changing the meaning of this word? Does it mean now that anything that was illegal is ok?

This absurd. If they are breaking the law, which illegal means, how come they don't get arrested?

Mike, Youngstown, OH   November 4th, 2007 8:30 am ET

Please, spare me. How far will the Clinton campaign stoop to promote her candidacy? Planting a couple of nutcases in the audience is as old as dirt. Anyone but this phony, Clinton, please!

Cheryl Ohio   November 4th, 2007 8:30 am ET

"Jolliffe was pointing out that drivers who can have licenses are more likely to have insurance."

WRONG! In states that have previously tried this, the opposite has occurred and there is not a shred of evidence to support this line of thought.
Dricing IS a Privilege and does nothing to protect other drivers.
What is does is to legitimize illegals, and does nothing to prompt the government to crack down on lawbreaking illegals.
In case studies, illegals who were required to have insurance to get drivers licenses, soon dropped their insurance after obtaining the license, or did not renew it, but continued to drive.

Nick, Eden Praire MN   November 4th, 2007 8:18 am ET

People, giving illegal people licenses is a terrible idea because it encourages them to come over here. You can't pretend you're tough against illegal immigrant on one hand and on the other say 'But if they are here, lets make sure we make their lives as easy as possible.' People aren't stupid enough to believe it. Plus, the reason Hillary is getting so much flake for it isn't just the position she took – others took the same one – it's that the flip-flopped on stage about it. No to any candidate that takes lobbyist money.

Melvin Mountain Iraon, Mn   November 4th, 2007 7:17 am ET

Well now I suppose people are going to blame Hillary Clinton for another of bush's screw ups.

And I love your headline. Instead of what the article is, you make sure it is a pan against Hillary. I think we should dismantle the MSM and start over. This country deserves a press that is fair and honest. And as lont as the republicans own it all we are going to get is suck up republican news. Shame shame what you people have helped to be done to our great country. Can you sleep at night. Do you see all those coffins you helped create. Do you see all the bodies.

alan St.Louis MO   November 4th, 2007 6:44 am ET

TYPICAL

SMOKE SCREEN, MISDIRECTION, MISINFORMATION and MIROR tactics used agin

Clinton=deception

Don, Akron Ohio   November 4th, 2007 6:31 am ET

People need to get a grip.

A license isn't a priviledge. It's designed to show proof that you have been educated in driving law and safety.

If it's anything else to certain people, they're reading something into it.

Thompson,Ks,Mo   November 4th, 2007 6:18 am ET

Now clinton enters the face of Republicans competition topic. She has already declared herself a winner with the democrats and has no need to compete with them anyway. She goes flashing herself in the country till this weekend when Obama slowed her down.
It is insane for anyone to vote for Hillary. She has already demonstrated that she is going to ignore the Citizen of America and listen selectively….
The media that love her, come to the debate with well selected questions and she doesn't have to answer them….
They have blocked Obama for the longest. This is cowboys country and we need no real Person to lead us!
Just my thought…..

Ruth,Andover,mass   November 4th, 2007 6:07 am ET

This is not an issue to report on. Obviously cnn is playing tricks for clinton……I just watched the debate online because I was unable to watch that day and you know, Obama came prepared to Philly debate and grabbed the bull by it's horn. I've been waiting for this longest and I think my vote is now decided.
Go, Omama. I mean I just liked Obama

Sam, IA   November 4th, 2007 5:18 am ET

I wish the hate radio crowd would stick to Fox and Rush. Mega dittos and atta boys are about as far as thier analysis of any issue goes. Illegals do NOT draw social security because they have no number. As many as 200 of them will give the same ss# and the poeple hiring them know that. As far as licensing them you at least have an address to start the search for any of them that may have committed a serious crime and will be able to screen the illegals from the terrorists.
The packing plants, poultry and construction and roofing industries here in the midwest are staffed completely by illegals and the owners of these businesses are the republican stalwarts of our state. Point the sites at the right targets, numbskulls.

Nick Phoenix, AZ   November 4th, 2007 4:52 am ET

I think that some of you people are being silly. It is pretty clear that the overall intention of this is to force illegal immigrants to register somehow. Everyone that says that illegals should be deported is correct. However, some random state Governor cannot enforce deportation in any sense..that is up to the federal government. If this is not happening, the state governments still need to do SOMETHING in regards to illegal immigrants. Allowing them to get a drivers license is fine. No one is saying they should just be given a license, obviously. Let's not be dense. They would have to pass the test, just like everyone else that gets a license. This is an attempt by a state government to help mitigate a huge issue that the federal government is not acting appropriately on. Everyone needs to stop being panicky and think about the issues with a clear head, instead of just being alarmists. It also strikes me as ironic that the rest of the Democratic candidates are essentially just taking pot shots at Hillary now. In doing so, they have all but conceded the nomination to her.

Cleve, Litchfield Park, Arizona   November 4th, 2007 4:08 am ET

Let's see, they broke the law by entering this country illegally, the broke the law by not being licensed to drive, they broke the law by not being properly insured. Apparently they are little concerned with the law. So what kind of convoluted logic would cause a person to believe granting a drivers license to people that have little respect for the law prevent auto accidents?
The fact is, one does preclude, or prevent the other.
How many legal citizens that lawfully licensed and insured are involved in auto accidents each year? I would have to conclude that number is ZERO if one uses the reasoning expressed by the people here.
Is it a fact that aren't any accidents involving citizens that are legally licensed and insured each year??
WELL ????

Paul NY   November 4th, 2007 3:53 am ET

They would still have to pass a drivers test to get the licences. They would still have to pay the same fee you would , whats the problem?

Just ranting and raving thay they shouldn't be here is going to accomplish nothing. They ARE here, why not know who they are?

Alex   November 4th, 2007 3:31 am ET

No. You are wrong McKinney. Wrong. Anyone who knows the law and is capable of a little critical thinking can answer these questions. People who are in this country illegally need to be deported. Period."

Maybe you want to ask yourself, Can America afford to deport the 12million illegals in this country?

Obviously americans are not capable of a little critical thinking, I watched this debate and what I got from Clinton's answer was I don't support it but I think what the Gov of NY is try to do is a good idea since congress has failed to do something about immigration, the state is trying to do something.

I think some of you need to go back and watch that debate again and stop allowing the media to think for you.

Fair,Washington, DC   November 4th, 2007 2:48 am ET

I think I can guarantee Obama the vote now,
Meet me at the voting booth Obama!!

Posted By Bobb,nashua, NH : November 3, 2007 11:06 pm
Susan and BejanLuv,

I am curious to know what was Obama's answer to giving driver's license to illegals?

Posted By bee, ny : November 4, 2007 12:20 am

Thr answer to your question Bee is after Obama jumped on Hillary for not answering a very difficult question and be ready with a perfect answer that she knows is not black and white he was asked by Tim Russert what his stand on the issue is and he basically agreed with Clinton that its not a priviledge and said he would not dismiss the idea of GIVING licenses to illegal aliens because he deals with the same problem in Illinois. Don't waste your time on trying to figure out what Benluv and Susan are talking about, they are obviously Obama supporters or some other candidate supporter and want to act like this issue was the end all and be all on their vote for Clinton. Yea right, vote for who you want but don't treat people like they have stupid written on their forehead Ben and Susan

Pete-NYC   November 4th, 2007 2:42 am ET

Big deal-driver's license.
It sounds like a precious thing to have.
Another privilege for a better race!
I don’t think that any legal incense would give anybody opportunity to kill.
We better fix our sick system.
By the way-any smart illegal would say no to this stupid “license for illegal” idea.
Any redneck upstate office clerk or cop would report or arrest them. Get a life!
I don’t think that illegal aliens are that stupid.
They are obviously not-because they are doing much better than 90% of welfare south.
At least they work!
Give them licenses-let them pay so we can have more money to spend.

Nilaham Tehran Iran   November 4th, 2007 2:32 am ET

Hey, I am 50% Black 50% White 40% Arab 40% Spanish 30% Europian 30% African 12% Australian. My Grandmother is from Iceland and my Grandfather is from Russia, and my cousin is related to Dick Cheney. How come I am not a Candidate ?

Tanive, Menlo Park, CA   November 4th, 2007 2:29 am ET

Please tell me that most of these responses are JOKES! I am ashamed of associating myself with you ignorant Americans!
All of your prejudices are based on FEAR!
Where on earth did you read that "illegal" immigrants cannot drive? or that "they kill so many people because they are not experience[d]" (Posted By faye,newton,ma : November 3, 2007 11:22 pm)? Or that they do not pay taxes?!!
Well guess what! These "illegal" immigrants are not any more likely to get into car accidents than you "legal" Americans!
Furthermore, these “illegal immigrants” are REQUIRED TO PAY TAXES and yet they do not benefit from many government services like Social Security!!! As research shows,

“The widespread belief is that illegal aliens cost more in government services than they contribute to the economy. This belief is undeniably false,” (http://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=881584)
“undocumented immigrants contribute to the U.S. economy through their investments and consumption of goods and services… Yet undocumented immigrants are barred from almost all government benefits, including food stamps, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, Medicaid, federal housing programs, Supplemental Security Income, Unemployment Insurance, Social Security, Medicare, and the earned income tax credit (EITC).”

WOW! They pay taxes yet they do not have a say in where their money goes AND…
So please, I ask you, educate yourselves before spitting out your silly beliefs founded solely on FEAR.

PLUS allowing them to have licenses does not mean they would become U.S. citizens. OPEN YOUR EYES! This would only benefit you…especially if you end up in a car accident with an undocumented immigrant! They would be able to get insurance, ultimately meaning YOU WOULD GET PAID!
Dehumanizing undocumented immigrants as the vast majority you have done disgusts me to the core of my soul (it's a gift that many of you are undoubtedly lacking)

Keith, Chicago, IL   November 4th, 2007 2:10 am ET

We need to hold the Bush Administration accountable for its perfectly inept administration of existing immigration policies. The right wingers who now pander are ridiculous with their "send 'em packin" mantra.

Catalina, Stony Brook, NY   November 4th, 2007 1:55 am ET

Why not have people who are here illegally obtain an international license from their home country? Let other countries create a consulate-based DMV and issue their own licenses, based on American rules of the road and driving tests.

There's no reason a non-citizen or non-legal resident needs to have an American identity document.

If I go to Europe to visit, I can obtain an international license, but it doesn't begin a chain of events to make me French or British, or Spanish.

Shosxi New York NY   November 4th, 2007 1:53 am ET

Why don't you just have Tehran Status News covering the Election.

Daniel, NY   November 4th, 2007 1:51 am ET

Check out the dirty tricks the GOP is already resorting to around this issue!

Raman, Plano TX   November 4th, 2007 1:50 am ET

In most countries foreigners who enter a country without proper authorization, would be termed as enemy number one of the state or as spies.

In US, foreigners who come without proper authorization, do not have to worry about being termed as enemies of state or spies. They are automatically granted status of an immigrant and have the a specialization of being ILLEGAL.

Maybe I should go back to Asia and start educating Asians on how to become an immigrant (ILLEGAL) in US and thus they can avoid torturous immigration process implemented by US embassies in their respective countries.

kole niagarafalls ontario   November 4th, 2007 1:37 am ET

To Jason, St Louis, Missouri in canada immigrants are allowed to have drivers license and insurance and they are law abiding so if you sit down and think and use your head you realise its the best thing to do in the use and also this way immigrants are registered in the system to me i think it is a great idea

bettyc, Havre de Grace, MD   November 4th, 2007 1:28 am ET

I am a 'good' Democrat. and I wish I could vote for my party in '08. However, the little phony show that Hillary put on about licenses for illegal aliens is just exactly what the Bushies have been doing for six years. A vote for Clinton is a vote for Bush. What I want is an honest president. She isn't it. Betty C in Havre de Grace, MD

Randle Bate - Woodland Hills, CA   November 4th, 2007 1:26 am ET

If Hillary Clinton wasn't so eager to please those she perceives as a voting base, (They're not; they can't vote. Maybe she would consider the fact that once the illegal aliens have a drivers license as they have to do is go to the closest gun store; then they can buy a gun. These people have already shown they have no respect for the law. What does Clinton want, a gun battle at the OK corral?R

Rick, Kansas City, MO   November 4th, 2007 1:26 am ET

If they don't respect our laws for immigration, why would they respect the laws for maintaining insurance?

No respect for the law.

The two "concerned citizens" were likely planted. It's a "vast left-wing conspiracy", to be sure.

deroy WPB, FL   November 4th, 2007 1:18 am ET

once that you start issuing drivers licenses and giving amnesty there will be no end.

this shirt sighted venture will bankrupt the united states as we know it.
social security (SSI), medicare/medicaid will ahve to be rationed.

of course clinton and other sdon't care becuase they got "theirs".

i don't know where these people think their kids and grandchildren will live.

we are currently in chapter one of being a third world nation. soon we will begin paying for oil in euros. you can the the republicans and democrats for wrecking the country.

oh, jeep planting those fools at your 'rallies'. no one can see through that.

Mark Columbus, Ohio   November 4th, 2007 1:15 am ET

She still leaves me wondering where she stands on this issue. When she answered the two people, she blamed the Federal government, but didn't say what she would do about it. That's all that Hillary has done…blame Bush and others but not have an answer for how to solve the problems. I believe she would be worse than Bush himself if she got in for President.

Mark
WatchingHillary.com

Baron New York NY   November 4th, 2007 1:05 am ET

HNN Hitler News Network. You tell 'em CNN. Posting what you want to control.

Rodney Dallas, TX   November 4th, 2007 12:55 am ET

judd,manchester,NH

Obama has missed 80% of the votes since September. He's not doing his job. What makes you think he'll do his job if he gets elected president.

Jackson, Morongo Valley, CA   November 4th, 2007 12:52 am ET

Unlike Obama and Edwards, at least Clinton has spoken about the issue of drivers licences for illegals … neither of them have taken a stand one way or the other. And for Iran, how can anyone say now what they will do over a year from now when the situation with Iran could change drastically in the interim? It is foolishness and unfair of Obama to perpetuate this nonsense as a legitimate negative of Clinton.

pw Tulsa,OK   November 4th, 2007 12:49 am ET

These folks were obvious PLANTS.
If they had a lic they still would of been hit. Then they say if they had a lic they would have insurance,,a licence does not require insureance,,,in some states you cannot get a lic PLATE unless you have insurance,but then they all get the minimum coverage,,show the proof of insurance at the time,,,,,,,,,,then they DROP the coverage and run down the road and hit you with NO INSURANCE..thats how it works folks. I did not think folks in IOWA could be so naive.,,but they are very much so.
Can they get a licence in Japan or mexico or any place on the planet,,hell no,,,,,,but they think illegal mexicans should have them here. This is the spineless class in America.

Vicente Zephyrhills,FL   November 4th, 2007 12:44 am ET

By what logic does giving a drivers license to an illegal alien make them a better driver or citizen? Most of them are scofflaws at the very least. Why not chauffeur them around? That way they can travel to the jobs they took from our kids in style. Hillary Clinton lost my vote when she refuses to admit the the mess left behind by the Clinton Administration.

In this town the illegals have already killed two people on the road driving DUI. They don't care if they have a license or not. They think they are ENTITLED to a free ride. I have been told to my face that they are above the law and can do whatever they want here.

Shame on the United States. Shame on the Democratic Party. Close the borders to lawbreakers and criminals. Send the drug dealers back to the place that spawned them.

I am a heretic… US citizens come first.

Ken, San Diego, CA   November 4th, 2007 12:43 am ET

Tim Russert asked, "Does anyone here NOT think illegal immigrants should get a license". The ONLY one who raised his hand was Dodd. For all you people now trying to use this as a wedge issue, guess what, both Obama and Edwards AGREE with Clinton!

Ivan, Chicago, Illinois   November 4th, 2007 12:42 am ET

Who's fueling this issue and why are you at CNN helping. The Ann Coulter statement recieved 2856 responses more than all the responses you received in any week. Perhaps Coulter being a conservative and the general media agenda is greatly influenced by the conservative media, her comments if not anti-Semitic was insulting to the Jewish religion, quietly went away.

Alyssa, Santa Barbara, CA   November 4th, 2007 12:39 am ET

I think that if you are an illegal, you should be deported. and not just mexican illegals, but people from ALL countries who have entered the U.S. illegally. Also, everyone needs to do a little research to see how many accidents involving illegals have been reported as opposed to accidents involving U.S. citizens. I'm sure there are PLENTY of Americans who drive without licenses, dont have insurance, etc. I was in an accident here in California and the man who hit me didn't have insurance, but he had two babies in his car and tried to get MY insurance to pay. I think the majority of people are just greedy and lazy when it comes to certain things.

Dan Shockley   November 4th, 2007 12:38 am ET

Clinton and like are misleading Americans with this licenses for illegals issue. What we need to accomplish is getting all illegals out of the US and back in their own country. They can apply for visas to work in the US from their own country. Most politicians (R/D) only want votes, they have no interest or concern for the damage they will leave behind. I can only hope that more Americans will wake up and realize what damage these politicians are doing to the US…and the world.

Austin Rehdd, New Brunswick, NJ   November 4th, 2007 12:33 am ET

Hahahahaha…what a soap opera. So Clinton is really this scared, eh? To go as far as to have campaign staffers pose as "supporters" who want to support her on the driver's license issue? These were obvious plants…so staged…sheesh.

Obama has my vote..this woman is so fake and manufactured.

Mrs. America   November 4th, 2007 12:29 am ET

If you were somewhere illegally, would you present yourself to the authorities?

Vincent, Santa Rosa CA   November 4th, 2007 12:23 am ET

Why is everyone with political power dodging the obvious answer??

The answer is not to license ILLEGAL immigrants, doing so will just reinforce the bad behavior! You don't give a bad kid a cookie for doing the wrong thing?

The only answer that will send the message is deportation with the promise of imprisonment if they return without proper clearance. If a new law must be passed then do so.

B.F   November 4th, 2007 12:21 am ET

This shows Hillary is an un-American loon. Giving illegals ANY citizen benefits is insane.

bee, ny   November 4th, 2007 12:20 am ET

Susan and BejanLuv,

I am curious to know what was Obama's answer to giving driver's license to illegals?

Al   November 4th, 2007 12:19 am ET

What's the big deal about giving licenses to illegals? It was common in FL until after 9/11 and a few states and give them. I am all for it, give them the licenses. It will be a boost for the economy because many will buy cars and insurance. I AM ALL FOR IT!! Also I don't want to be rear ended by one with no license and insurance.

Jed in Texas   November 4th, 2007 12:18 am ET

Great!now "Bush lite" has hired actors for the audience.People get real, this whole election is being staged before your very eyes.Its already over!The powers behind the scenes know exactly what they are doing and that is the real I.D ACT. They want everyone tracked!Your voting is pointless when you dont even have a paper trail and they control the computor systems that you use to vote on.They are happy keeping you fighting amongst your selves,thinking you actually make a difference. I think they want the Illegals so they can be drafted for the next War ,just after the elections…WarIII

sierra, sf   November 4th, 2007 12:17 am ET

judd,manchester,NH : November 3, 2007 10:52 pm

Obama is in favor of giving licenses to illegals. Edwards is in favor. (Though surprisingly in the debate neither had the guts to say it outright, they were busy following Clinton).

So what's the problem when Hillary is in favor of this? It is not a simple issue so Hillary was sharing the various aspects of the problem. But I guess the debate was planned not to give her enough time to explain an important issue like this.

Dont have double standards when it comes to jumping on Clinton just because you hate her.

Allan, San Francisco CA   November 4th, 2007 12:12 am ET

Go ahead everyone…vote for Clinton. If you want to see a real mess…let her be president. This was such a staged act my third-grader would have done a better job. I hope for this country, Bloomberg runs as an Independent. 4 years of Hilary will ruin America.

deb   November 4th, 2007 12:03 am ET

to keep illegals here then they need to do something,send them back,if there not willing to keep there money here instead of going to kmart to send 500 dollars or more to mexico,make them buy insurance,pay taxes,I was in line there were 4 illegals they sent lotts.i guess you dont have to show id when you send,they didn't.naturally they spoke spanish.

Sue, Baltimore, MD   November 4th, 2007 12:01 am ET

Let me get this straight–these illegals are driving w/o licenses and they are the victims?? And if we give them licenses, that will miraculously prevent them from being involved in accidents? How about this: If they weren't here illegally in the first place, they wouldn't be here to be involved in any accident–that's a guarantee. And by the way–here in MD, illegals are allowed to obtain driver's licenses. My husband watched as an American citizen was turned away at the Motor Vehicle Admin. He couldn't get a license b/c he did not have two pieces of mail sent to his address, proving he is a MD resident. However, immediately after he was sent away with no license, a non-English speaker comes to the window and had no government identification–nothing. The MVA employee, after trying out her limited Spanish on this person who told her he "forgot" his green card at home, promptly issued him a driver's license on the spot. He wasn't sent away to retrieve his imaginary green card. So there you have it. If you want to obtain a fraudulent ID, pretend you are someone who doesn't speak English–pretend you are an "undocumented" person. Come to MD, all! To anyone thinking that I am a racist: I come from an immigrant family. Our family chose to come here legally and then serve this country, not drain the country's resources.

Steve Wittlake Blaine Washington   November 3rd, 2007 11:58 pm ET

Forcing illegal aliens or legal residents to secure insurance that they cannot afford in order to get a license does not work. They just cancel the insurance the next day. This has been the expirience of every State in the Union. You need an real time online system that cancells the persons licence illegal alien or legal resident the second the insurance is cancelled.

john williams san diego, ca.   November 3rd, 2007 11:54 pm ET

this is just the start of pure evils' war machine with those plants..the last thing i would want for an illegal who hit my car is to give him a license. how about immediate deportation. how is having a license mean that you have insurance? in a santuary city like san diego the illegals acquire junks from tijuana and if they get in fender benders they just give fake I.D.s and walk away because of people like hillary and the aclu.

diane l. machesney park, IL   November 3rd, 2007 11:52 pm ET

I am hoping CNN knows these are plants. She is famous for this trick but, you know how the press is. duh.

Karl Rudolf, Houston, Texas   November 3rd, 2007 11:47 pm ET

The driver license issue debated by Clinton, Spitzer, and others cannot be real when people believe giving undocumented people a driver's license, they will buy car insurance. In New Orleans, before Katrina, an auto insurance agent estimated that 2/3 of people driving there, did not have insurance, in Houston, the estimate is that 50% drive without insurance, the same percentage of drivers carrying a gn in their car.

This whole issue is a gimmick, primarily by the Democrats to get the Hispanic vote. For those politicians, that want to do something about people not having insurance, let me suggest a simple procedure. A person applying for a car registration should show proof that he has bought insurance. If he buys insurance solely to get the car registration, i.e., he immediately cancels it upon receiving the car registration, the insurance company and the police need to be notified to retrieve the license plate and a big fine. Would it not be nice to finally be able to cancel that large premium for uninsured motorists. And as far as undocumented workers goes, let them follow the rules to get legal immigrants. I did, it cost me 4 years of my life in the military, but I believe in following the law of the country I wanted to live.

John Atlanta, GA   November 3rd, 2007 11:43 pm ET

E.C., Houston, Mexico…er, Texas:
Wait a minute, there's this fella from Texas named George W. Bush who has been pushing to give amnesty to illegals for quite awhile now. Heck, his brother Jeb even married one!

Richard Mckinney, tx   November 3rd, 2007 11:41 pm ET

I don't want to get into name calling, but if Hillary's last name was Smith, no one would give her the time of day..
If you like the Hugo Chavez still of gov't then Hillary is for you…I like less gov't, lower taxes and not her healthcare plan of knowing when to pull your own plug if you get to old to be useful…..no thanks…

Walt, Belton, TX   November 3rd, 2007 11:39 pm ET

Anybody that believes that little "take" was not planned and set up believes slick Willy only smoked cigars.

The answer may be we just need to play cowboys and mexicans and cowboys and arabs with some vigor. Ask the Indians we unabashedly wiped out.

Brian P Lenac, Everett, WA   November 3rd, 2007 11:35 pm ET

Many of the questions Senator Clinton is being critisized about for not answering yes or no, are questions that no one CAN honestly give a yes or a no answer to….

No. You are wrong McKinney. Wrong. Anyone who knows the law and is capable of a little critical thinking can answer these questions. People who are in this country illegally need to be deported. Period.

I stood in line for a decade and paid thousands to get my citizenship. You've got to pay to play. Giving illegals licenses so that they can get low end jobs and cause more economic trouble for us is insanity. They should be deporte–when identified–until they can immigrate LEGALLY.

Why is this so hard for people to understand–do you think our immigration laws were written for fun? This is not a moral issue, this is an issue of our national security.

Hillary for president!! We need her.

God save us all from this kind of ignorance. The Clintons are criminals–period. They are just more slick than the Bush family.

I bet you don't even know who Ron Paul is, do you?

San Diego,CA   November 3rd, 2007 11:30 pm ET

I think there is a general anxiety in this country due to the incompetence of President Numbnuts. Illegals are just a convenient target for people to vent their frustration. Instead, 1/2 of the voters should look in the mirror and blame themselves for President Numbnuts 2x.

Richard, Mckinney, Tx   November 3rd, 2007 11:29 pm ET

Not me, I voted for Bill twices, and Gore..plus living in Arkansas…I have had enough Clinton, Bush,,,I will go with Rudy if he is the Rep..nom……

Elizabeth, Bartlett, TN   November 3rd, 2007 11:29 pm ET

Giving illegals a driving licence is asking for voter fraud. When a person applies for a drivers license they are automatically given a voter registration form. (Motor-voter law). Although have to do is say they are citizens, they are not required to prove it, and they will be allowed to vote. They would also have official ID to show a the polling place.

Jun, Los Angeles, CA   November 3rd, 2007 11:28 pm ET

Hillary haters or otherwise, there's just one thing that she knows for sure – to win an election! So prepare yourselves because she will put America back on its tracks!

Richard, mckinney, tx   November 3rd, 2007 11:25 pm ET

How many people have been killed by illegals….I wouldn't be surprised if the 2, 3 people there were plants…

faye,newton,ma   November 3rd, 2007 11:22 pm ET

Obviously this will solve the problem we have right now on illegal aliens. This is a good idea since they need to go to work, buy many cars and pay alot to insurance companies and this will be a big business.
My only worry is if they kill so many people because they are not experience and they will be glad to show off to their friend and their families that they have a car and they can now drive, I had a gentlemen who was working for me from another country, the very day he got the drivers lincence he smashed his car to my garage and I can try to rethink how much damage he did to my house and my car parked in the garage. I always think if anyone was in the garage, my husband or my 16years daughter what could have happened. I think Giving so many foreigners licences will be total chaos in this country. we are being robbed by these politicians the big picture of this issue. I don't think Americans have anymore freedom in this country…

PoliticalTicker@gmail.com   November 3rd, 2007 11:21 pm ET

This sounds Soooooooooooooo staged! She was Soooooooooooo prepared for her next line, wasn't she?

Route 52 Avenger   November 3rd, 2007 11:19 pm ET

TO: Ed, in Ellenville, NY:

I'm just a little confused by your statement… if you are truly 'undocumented' as you say, then how can you be 'paying taxes' as a homeowner?

BTW, I know who you are, and I know where you live, you lying sack of crap!

Beth,newyork city, NY   November 3rd, 2007 11:14 pm ET

Clintonians back to the white house. I think giving drivers licences to illegal aliens will help them assimilate to the society. I would like them to be able to vote and knock Obama off!

SilverB, Lilburn, GA   November 3rd, 2007 11:13 pm ET

Facts
1. there are no illegal human beings
2. it is not up to the governor to man the borders. If the gov cant secure the borders and people end up here, the duty of the governors is to make sure people are treated as people, equal under the law,
3.if the undocumented are nabbed, they should face the law, but pretending they are not here or it is the work of the governor to do what the federal gov has failed (is secure the borders) is absurd

feb,charleston,s.c   November 3rd, 2007 11:11 pm ET

This is not how to deal with illegal aliens!! What part of the word illegal don't you understand!!

African American woman who has shifted to Edward or Obama

Karen, NYC   November 3rd, 2007 11:10 pm ET

"There are two of us here," Jolliffe said, "who have been hit by those unlicensed drivers. It's not a privilege, it’s a protection."

AND…… CUT!!!!

Excellent job campaign plants… excellent… but next time we need you to have fake tears in your eyes. We don't want to look like you're PLANTED campaign employees….

Bobb,nashua, NH   November 3rd, 2007 11:06 pm ET

I think I can guarantee Obama the vote now,
Meet me at the voting booth Obama!!

sally,Derry, NH   November 3rd, 2007 11:05 pm ET

People here are not happy with this lady anymore and I think we are turning a page to Obama right now because we don't want bush dictatorship again!

nancy, cleveland, Ohio   November 3rd, 2007 11:04 pm ET

Who will vote for her?

susan,nyc,ny   November 3rd, 2007 11:02 pm ET

This country is sinking in the mud!! Can you imagine a country with so many accidents just because of illegals?
I don't care if it is about insurance but I think to denie them is better than to give them.
I am a woman but this got me really bad and my vote here on is Obamas!!!

Jon, Sacramento ~ Ca   November 3rd, 2007 11:01 pm ET

Just think… if illegal aliens weren't here because we actually ENFORCED deportation laws… how many people would be getting into traffic accidents with illegal aliens??

Um.. zero??

Hey, Hillary – how about we get these poor poor illegal aliens driver training, tax-payer interpreters so the illegals have a chance at passing the drivers test, Government-paid auto insurance, … yeah… THAT will solve the problem!

Better yet – throw out the illegals and the politicians pushing to protect them.

Phillip,fairfax,Va   November 3rd, 2007 11:00 pm ET

There she goes, She is the "decider", Already?
Now you can see what this woman can do just to win elections!!!

Tom   November 3rd, 2007 10:59 pm ET

Without a drivers license, they shouldn't be driving in the first place.

Peter,sanfrancisco,ca   November 3rd, 2007 10:58 pm ET

I think the insurance companies and motor industry is funding clinton campaign and this is why she is saying this. Why didn't she propose this when she was a senator in NY…OOOOh I forgot it is all political then I will be left less safe on the road.

jack,nyc,ny   November 3rd, 2007 10:56 pm ET

Obviously, There will be total massacre in the country because most of these people didn't drive in their countries and now they will be driving here which makes me wonder how they will be able to do that safely without causing so many accidents. I want to feel safe when driving!!!

BajanLuv, Newport News, VA   November 3rd, 2007 10:55 pm ET

Ralph, Austin:
Were you watching the debate? Obama did answer the question. So using his not showing up for a vote to help Hillary. This is about Hillary's answer. He is not the only one that miss votes and I am sure that he will answer for that. So for now: Where does Hillary stand on this iisue. Her supports are sounding more and more like her every day–clones!!!!

E. C., Houston, Texas   November 3rd, 2007 10:53 pm ET

Illegal Aliens in the U.S. should be DEPORTED at once. There should be NO SANCTUARY CITIES…what is THIS?…NOR should these people be allowed to receive a Legal Document known as a Driver's License….What is THIS? The Next Law that should be enacted to Protect this Country is one that STATEs: There will be NO Sanctuary Cities OR States that Protect Illegal Aliens. Oklahoma has it RIGHT! Legal Citizens of the U.S. should not have to Fight to get Illegal Aliens DEPORTED. IT's AGAINST THE LAW TO BE IN THE U.S. ILLEGALLY. THIS IS A FEDERAL LAW…AND SHOULD BE AUTOMATICALLY ENFORCED. Hillary wants to give them ALL AMNESTY…she has said so. Hillary Clinton doesn't have a 'clue' about the crime and horror that these Illegal Aliens create or how they RUIN CITIES AND NEIGHBORHOODS. NOT A CLUE!

judd,manchester,NH   November 3rd, 2007 10:52 pm ET

Ralph from texas, Get your facts right! Obama was informed in the evening there will be a vote on Iran tommorrow. Tell me how he could have gone to washington just for that vote?
How could he have cancelled the campaign that people are waiting already? On illegal immigration issue, Stop spinning the fact that he aswered so well that he wouldn't give illegal immigrants drivers licences. John Edward too said he wouldn't. Now tell us what else dear because we listened to that debate. I just Think Clinton is getting it wrong on this one and will see what will happen. It i not about insurances it is about who is getting the licence when they come here and their driving habits. Can you immagine how many accidents will happen in a day, because the system is easier for most of them?

Joan,Boston,ma   November 3rd, 2007 10:40 pm ET

I am sick and tired of this woman. I think he think convectionally as obama puts it. They have created an issue in New york that we can debate on now. There are many issue left aside. Remember we have men and women in IRaQ dying. That isn't an issue anymore miss president!!!
You know what you are just Dean in a woman Dress and laughing a laugh that makes me left wondering if you need some mental check up just like we need to do to G.W.Bush!

J. McKinney SW MO   November 3rd, 2007 10:35 pm ET

Many of the questions Senator Clinton is being critisized about for not answering yes or no, are questions that no one CAN honestly give a yes or a no answer to. Many things aren't black or white, like the drivers licenses to illegals. Certainly they shouldn't be given licenses because they are a privilege, but on the other hand, it would be a way to identify them. She is right on with her answers, and is intelligent enough, and responsible enough, to know there is more than one side to many of the problems she will face when she becomes president. Rather than just saying something to satisfy someone who in many cases isn't intelligent enough to understand what they are asking, she is being as honest as she knows how, on these difficult questions.
Hillary for president!! We need her.

jam,nyc,ny   November 3rd, 2007 10:29 pm ET

ya right clinton! You are talking to American people the same people who will go to vote and I think this issue will eat you up to the finish!
Lou you need to be on clinton on this issue!

Jerry Weed CA.   November 3rd, 2007 10:27 pm ET

We would not have this problem if they would enforce the laws.

No need to give drivers lic. just secure the border and enforce the law

Remember if you vote for a democrat you are voting to give illigals citizenship

Marko, Portland, OR   November 3rd, 2007 10:26 pm ET

Maddam President is so smart, everytime I think I have figured her out, she impresses me with more. I love her. Give them hell Hillary!! You are the one that can win!! And will win!

Bob, Mobile AL.   November 3rd, 2007 10:25 pm ET

I am not racists at all but I think all the fuss about illegals still stems from the problem they broke the law. I myself had my license taken away for no insurance and I wish I had not but I am paying for brakeing the law and I think they should as well. My license was suspended until im done paying off my fines. Why am I being punished and they are not I dont understand I wish I could become an illegal so i do not have to worry about breaking the law and having to pay for my crimes.

Derek, Phoenix, AZ   November 3rd, 2007 10:20 pm ET

So giving illegals licenses will make them get insurance? Huh?

Nick, Eden Praire MN   November 3rd, 2007 10:16 pm ET

Let's see if I get this straight, they believe that if we give them licenses for free, people who are already breaking the law will spend their money to buy insurance? What kind of fantasy world do these people live in? The correct response is to secure our boards and come down hard on people who hire these people, not help them get jobs.

Ralph. Austin   November 3rd, 2007 10:16 pm ET

Exactly where does Senator Obama stand on the drivers license issue. He didn't say at the debate. Of course, he also doesn't vote in the Senate when it mighe be difficult later either. The spineless gentleman from Illinois.

Lacy Palm Springs, CA   November 3rd, 2007 10:10 pm ET

Why can't people understand that illegal immigration is ILLEGAL and therefore they do not have rights! Once we start giving out drivers license's to illegals, what's next… giving them voting rights. Basically they'll have everything we have but they still won't have to pay taxes!!

Milly, Atlanta, GA   November 3rd, 2007 10:09 pm ET

Its common sense to take measures that protect Americans even when its unpopular at face value.
Obama stated it outright, didn't need to test and pander with opinion polls.
commonsense…….

Matt Jonson, Alpharetta GA   November 3rd, 2007 10:08 pm ET

Hillary "sellout" Clinton, or any politician for that matter, rally doesnt give a hoot about the illegal alien problem. They have the luxury of armed gaurds, professional drivers, and gated communities to live in thus insulating them from the problem. It's us taxpaying suckers that bear the brunt of the illegal alien consequences.

Jason, St Louis, Missouri   November 3rd, 2007 10:04 pm ET

…only in America…

Can you imagine any other nation out there that would permit me to sneak into their country without permission or documentation and receive from the country any sort of government ID, much less a license to drive? It doesn't make any sense.

If you want them to "come out of the shadows," give them some sort of legal status (not necessarily citizenship). If you want them to stay indefinitely, grant them citizenship. If you want to discourage more from coming, fine their employers. Enough of this disgusting wishy-washy Clintonian fence-sitting. I may not like the Republican Party or its candidates, but at least I know where they stand, and I'd vote for them over someone like Clinton.

Maria, Los Angeles   November 3rd, 2007 10:02 pm ET

They were plants.

Lisa, Memphis, Tennessee   November 3rd, 2007 9:57 pm ET

Yes, if illegals had insurance then that would help the victums. This is assuming they would have insurance which is a big assumption. But isn't a better point that if the illegals hadn't been in the country in the first place then the accident wouldn't have happened?

Ed,Ellenville,New York   November 3rd, 2007 9:48 pm ET

There are aproximately a million people that are "undocumented" in NYS and we have no idea what they're status is. I happen to be one of them. I don't appreciate having my rights taken away and treated like I'm an illegal. I was born here and I own property,pay taxes, and have a family. Because Homeland security has corrupted the social security office and forced millions of americans to be re-classified as "undocumented", we are being shut out on the basis,likely, of political affiliation. NYS needs to verify our identity because we are not being counted. Only then will we know who is legal and who is not. I want my fingerprints to be my identity. This Bush administration is not the "decider" of who is an American. They do not have the right to revoke my citizenship or deny me a government issued ID.

RC Roanoke VA   November 3rd, 2007 9:44 pm ET

Nice "plants" by the Clinton campaign to try and recover from the disaster of her canned debate performance. Obama and Edwards are far better….

Kim, Peabody MA   November 3rd, 2007 9:41 pm ET

ILEGAL IS ILEGAL!! Instead of handing out licenses to illegal aliens, we need to enforce our laws and deport them when identified. This is ridicules! We Don’t pick and chose what laws we enforce within this nation. Both Hillary and Obama also voted to give Ilegal Aliens our social security benefits as well!

Check out Pete Grasso’s Plan for the illegal immigration problem facing this nation! I have not heard ONE good plan from any other candidate jockeying for the Presidency!

http://www.grassoforpresident.com/Immigration.aspx

Jeff, Phoenix, AZ   November 3rd, 2007 9:38 pm ET

This is crazy. So if the illigals had licences they wouldn't have hit the people??

Licences will just give the illegals more of a sense of entitlement and easier access to OUR resources.

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