There is a remarkable article in the Star Ledger  today in which U.S. Attorney Chris Christie contends erroneously that illegal immigration is not a crime, and passed the buck for his failure to implement and enforce existing laws to fellow do-nothings in the Bush Administration: "they should do their job". So should he!

While Christie's statement of the law was simply incorrect, even he concedes that it is a crime for an illegal immigrant to seek employment,  for employers to hire illegal immigrants, and to misrepresent one's illegal immigration status in myriad different situations where such violations occur now. Of course, it is also totallly inappropriate for a non-partisan, apolitical federal office holder like a U.S. Attorney to make political speeches. If Mr. Christie is intent on stepping into the political arena  he should resign his current post.    

Donald Cresitello was the first courageous voice for stricter immigration enforcement in New Jersey.  Most New Jerseyan agree with him. Chris Christie, Frank Lautenberg and Rob Andrews know how important this issue has become and just want it to go away. That kind of leadership is just not good enough in times like these.    

Cresitello 08 campaign research indicates that both Senator Lautenberg and Andrews voted for the Immigration Reform Act of 1996 including section 287 (G). 287 (G) was  good public policy, intended to multiply the enforcement resources available for immigration enforcement by deputizing properly trained state and local police, at a minimum of new expense. The political cowardice and inaction of Bush Administration officials like Christe is certainly disappointing, but so is the lack of leadership from Congressman Andrews and Senator Lautenberg.

Query: Do Lautenberg and Andrews agree with Mr. Christie? Are they aware of the effects on the quality of life wrought by illegal immigration through out New Jersey? If Lautenberg and Andrews think Christie is right on immigration, they should tell New Jerseyans where they stand. That is what real leadership means!  They could also tell us when Section 287 (g) became a bad idea! Was it before or after both Lautenberg and Andrews voted for it?Was this vote a mistake, like their votes in favor of the Iraq war. What have Lautenberg  and Andrews done to help New Jersey get effective immigration enforcement from Chris Christie and the rest of the Bush Administration? The Cresitello for Senate 08 campaign is committed to reaching thousands of voiceless  Democrats, and undeclared New Jerseyans, who can vote in the June Domocratic primary, and who feel great frustration with the lack of action by our US. Attorney, Senators and Congressmen.  They know courageous leadership can make  a difference.Cresitello for Senate 08