Illegal aliens and the 2010 census

Five states poised to add a congressional seat may end up losing out because of poor participation rates in the 2010 census. New York, Florida, Texas, Arizona, and California are all lagging, and might have quite a bit to lose. As you probably know, the Census helps determine representation in the House and federal funding.

As I looked at the list, I noticed that 3 of the states are along the Mexican border and have a large number of illegal aliens entering the state. Well, it looks like New York and Florida are in the same boat. It turns out that California (1), Texas (2), New York (3), Florida (5), and Arizona (6) make up five out of the top six states with the most illegal aliens. Is this merely a coincidence? Could some other variable be at work? That’s certainly possible, but you must admit that it is some coincidence.

No one should be surprised by the poor participation rates among illegal aliens. We are required by law to complete the Census. Of course, why would illegal aliens pay any attention to that small detail? They’ve already trespassed into the country and possibly broken other laws such as using fake I.D., identity theft, or related crimes. What’s one more infraction?

The next time you hear someone tell you that illegal aliens bring a positive benefit to America, remember this article. Remember how the U.S. will need to pay Census workers up to $25 per hour to track down those who didn’t fill out there forms, and how many of these individuals happen to be from states with large numbers of illegal aliens. Also remember how many of the people who don’t fill out the Census will be the ones who use the resources denied to their state because of their lack of participation.

Do you still think illegal aliens have a positive net benefit?