Looking back at former President Barack Obama’s 2014 address on immigration, one thing stands out: many of the positions he outlined differ noticeably from the immigration platform embraced by many Democratic leaders today.
Speaking from the White House in November 2014, Obama described illegal immigration as a problem requiring both congressional action and executive enforcement.
He argued that Congress should pass “common sense” immigration legislation but said that, until lawmakers acted, his administration would use executive authority in ways similar to previous Democratic and Republican presidents.
Obama outlined three priorities.
First, he pledged to strengthen border enforcement by providing additional resources to law enforcement personnel in an effort to reduce illegal crossings and speed the return of those who entered the country unlawfully.
Second, he proposed making it easier for highly skilled immigrants, graduates, and entrepreneurs to remain in the United States, arguing that doing so would benefit the nation’s economy.
Third, he called for addressing the status of the millions of undocumented immigrants already living in the country.
While Obama consistently referred to those in the country illegally as “undocumented immigrants,” his speech also emphasized immigration enforcement.
“Even as we are a nation of immigrants, we are also a nation of laws,” Obama said. “Undocumented workers broke our immigration laws, and I believe that they must be held accountable—especially those who may be dangerous.”
He noted that deportations of criminals had increased during his administration and said enforcement efforts would continue to focus on individuals considered public safety threats.
“Felons, not families. Criminals, not children. Gang members, not a mom who’s working hard to provide for her kids. We’ll prioritize, just like law enforcement does every day,” Obama said.
In remarks delivered shortly afterward, Obama delivered a direct warning to those considering entering the country illegally.
“If you’re a criminal, you’ll be deported. If you plan to enter the U.S. illegally, your chances of getting caught and sent back just went up,” he said, according to a CNN transcript.
At the same time, Obama also proposed temporary legal protections for certain undocumented immigrants who met specific conditions. Those requirements included living in the United States for more than five years, having children who were U.S. citizens or lawful residents, passing a criminal background check, registering with the government, and paying taxes.
“If you’ve been in America for more than five years … you’ll be able to apply to stay in this country temporarily, without fear of deportation,” Obama said.
