Words matter in immigration debate, as “papers” conjures images of oppression while “identification” suggests everyday normalcy.

At a Glance

• The terminology used in immigration discussions significantly impacts public perception
• Former President Trump emphasized border security and dangers posed by illegal immigrants on “Meet the Press”
• Sen. Ted Cruz’s claims about immigrants and crime rates are contradicted by available data
• Texas data shows illegal immigrants have lower crime rates than native-born citizens
• Different terminology like “papers” versus “identification” frames the immigration debate differently

Language and Perception in Immigration Debates

The terminology used in discussions about immigration can significantly shape public perception. When officials and media outlets use terms like “papers,” it often evokes historical images of authoritarian regimes where citizens were required to produce documentation on demand. This framing can create anxiety and portray immigration enforcement as oppressive. Conversely, when the same processes are described using the term “identification,” the connotation shifts to something more routine and acceptable—similar to showing a driver’s license or passport in everyday situations.

This linguistic distinction has become increasingly relevant as immigration remains at the forefront of American political discourse. The terminology frames not just how we discuss policy, but how we perceive those affected by it. As immigration continues to be a divisive issue, the words chosen by political leaders and media outlets carry significant weight in shaping public opinion on border security and immigration enforcement practices.

Trump’s Perspective on Immigration Security

During a recent appearance on “Meet the Press,” former President Donald Trump addressed concerns about illegal immigration, focusing on public safety threats. When questioned about whether lawful residents should be required to carry identification, Trump redirected the conversation to what he views as the more pressing concern of illegal immigration and its consequences for American citizens.

“I don’t think that’ll be necessary — but what you’re not saying is that many people have been killed, maimed, badly hurt by illegal immigrants.”, said President Trump

Trump’s administration previously focused on border security measures, including the construction of border walls. During the interview, he emphasized that without proper border security, the country faces serious consequences. Trump claimed that many illegal immigrants have criminal backgrounds, coming from “prisons and from jails, from mental institutions,” and credited his border wall construction with helping to manage immigration numbers during his presidency.

Fact-Checking Claims About Immigrant Crime

At the Republican National Convention, Senator Ted Cruz made several strong claims regarding illegal immigration and crime rates. Cruz characterized the situation at the southern border as an “invasion” and linked illegal immigration directly to violent crimes against American citizens. These statements align with messaging that has been consistent within parts of the Republican Party regarding border security concerns.

“We are facing an invasion on our southern border.”, added Sen. Ted Cruz

However, available data challenges some of these assertions. According to research cited by the Associated Press, people living in the United States illegally are actually less likely to be arrested for violent crimes, drug offenses, and property crimes compared to native-born Americans. Texas, which uniquely tracks crime rates by immigration status, shows lower crime rates among illegal immigrants than among the native-born population. This statistical evidence contradicts the narrative that illegal immigration inherently leads to higher crime rates.

The Complex Reality of Immigration Data

Other claims made at the Republican National Convention have been challenged by fact-checkers. A video presented at the convention suggested that President Biden had invited illegal immigrants to “surge” the border, but this quote was taken out of context from a 2019 debate where Biden was specifically discussing asylum seekers—a legal immigration process. The video also attributed fentanyl deaths directly to Biden’s border policies, despite evidence showing most fentanyl trafficking is conducted by U.S. citizens and the issue predates the current administration.

“Every day Americans are dying — murdered, assaulted, raped by illegal immigrants that the Democrats have released.”, concludes Sen. Ted Cruz

The disparity between political rhetoric and available data highlights how terminology and framing can influence public perception of immigration issues. As Americans seek to understand complex immigration challenges, the language used by leaders and media outlets—whether emphasizing identification requirements or focusing on “papers”—continues to shape how the public perceives both immigration enforcement and immigrants themselves. This linguistic framing remains a powerful tool in the ongoing national conversation about immigration policy.