wsbt.com

I was so stunned when I read the lead story in the August 2^nd South Bend Tribune that it took me hours to start writing this.  Indiana’s Attorney General, Republican Greg Zoeller, has asked a federal judge to strike down much of Indiana’s new immigration law. “It is basically a willingness to admit to the court that some parts of the law are unconstitutional” said Zoeller. 

Of course it is, because those parts Zoeller wants dropped are the same points ruled illegal by the U.S. Supreme Court. But Zoeller’s comments are really what stand out. He said he did it to “protect the integrity of his office” and to uphold the constitution. Is that just about the best, most even-handed and honorable to way to handle this situation? Not to mention that just to be politically bull-headed would have been a losing proposition and who knows how much cost to the state of Indiana.

Zoeller will continue to defend other portions of the Indiana law, but also said what most reasonable people already know – immigration policy should be a job for the federal government, not the states.  

Okay, okay, I know.  Leaving any measure up to the Congress of the United States using common sense is a lot like buying a lottery ticket and thinking you will be a multi-millionaire in the morning.

Just my view here, but I have to think that Governor Mitch Daniels gave more than just a wink and a nod to Zoeller before he issued his decision. If so, I say good for Mitch. And that reminds me of some remarks from Daniels when his name was floating around as a candidate for president. He thought his party should re-think using “social” issues as wedge issues. Good idea, but an idea that doesn’t seem to have taken hold.

Immigration is an issue that needs a fair, humane AND effective solution.

Until today I would not have known Greg Zoeller if he showed up in the backyard. But after today he can come to the backyard and join me for some ribs and beer and a meeting of the “Common Sense Elected Officials.”

It will be a small gathering.