Governor Perry: Call a Special Session

Dear Gov. Rick Perry,

I strongly support abolishing sanctuary policies and subsidized tuition rates for illegal aliens. You need to hold a special session to get this done irrespective of the demands of your presidential bid.

I think you should CALL FOR A DEBATE on anti-sanctuary policy to bring the issue into the national consciousness.

Those watching the legislature and your campaign will see, perhaps for the first time, the connections between the terrorist threat and the growing illegal-immigrant problem. Sanctuary cities undermine the steps that have been taken toward improving our national security. Anyone worthy of the presidency must understand this in order to lead national anti-terrorism efforts.

Congress passed two laws in 1996 that expressly forbid sanctuary city policies but the federal government has refused to enforce them. As a result, a patchwork array of sanctuary cities developed in Texas and other states that allow dangerous criminal illegal aliens to escape discovery. This makes Texans, and the entire country, more vulnerable.

The most compelling argument for ending local sanctuary policies is that they undermine federal anti-terrorism efforts. The members of the next team of Al Qaeda terrorists can easily hide in a sanctuary city because false documents are readily available, and can count on being released back into society if they're caught by local police. I don't think the general public recognizes this threat. Holding a special session would give you a forum for educating the nation.

Also Governor, I recommend a state debate now on in-state tuition policy because it will allow you to face the issue head on. It's clear that the issue is very important to your national audience as well as your constituents. Given the current political climate, I think legislators will vote to repeal. Endorsing a repeal would demonstrate that you are open to change and willing to listen to the people.

Sometimes bold action is necessary to get things back on track. Calling for a special session will allow legislators to address urgent needs at home and enable you to demonstrate to a nation how bold leadership can overcome one of our most intractable problems.

All the best,

Dr. Chris Albritton