Is it possible to have free immigration and a welfare state?

Question

in other words: Would there be less hostility towards immigrants if the perception did not exist that they were getting something for nothing while the rest of America struggles to make ends meet?

Answer 1

It is possible but not sustainable.  If immigrants moving to an area can receive benefits paid for by others (the definition of a welfare state), you incentivize others to come for the same reason.  As the number of people claiming "free" benefits increases, so does the strain on those paying for those benefits.  Eventually, something has to break.

I have long held the opinion that the solution to illegal immigration is to remove the incentive for them to come without a desire to earn their own way.  While the welfare state is a special problem for immigration (due to the ability of foreigners to elect to come), I oppose it no less among naturalized citizens.  Nothing is free.  While I am strongly in favor of helping disadvantaged people, instituting a system the steals from some people to give to others will eventually fail everyone (with the possible exception of the people who control the system).

Answer 2

.Prove they are getting something for nothing

Answer 3

Please don't call them immigrants; they are illegal aliens.  People don't like them because they are here illegaly and have this sense of self-entitlement and expect everything handed to them for free.

Answer 4

Doubtful.  Finally the citizens will tire of paying for the immigrants.