Black lawmakers are accusing Republicans of trying to “manufacture tension” between African-Americans and immigrants on jobs issues.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Black lawmakers are accusing Republicans of trying to "manufacture tension" between African-Americans and immigrants on jobs issues.
A congressional hearing Tuesday focused on whether illegal immigrants take jobs from minorities.
Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II, chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, and other lawmakers say the hearing was an attempt by the GOP to create an "us versus them" mentality, while ignoring other issues that contribute to higher unemployment in the black community.
Republicans have been arguing for tougher immigration enforcement as a way to bring economic recovery and reduce unemployment. California Republican Elton Gallegly says illegal immigrants compete for jobs with low-wage workers, including minorities. He and other Republicans say tougher enforcement would help Latino and black communities.
Copyright 2011 The Associated Press.
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