Is the election really going to come down to immigration?

Is America so disgusted by Donald Trump that it can overcome its division and conquer him in the midterm elections, despite fears over immigration? This may very well be the question that determines the election results. More and more it is becoming obvious that immigration is one of the most influential topics among today’s issues in American politics. However, are the politicians taking up the subject as a talking point to stoke partisan fears, thus widening the divide?

There appears to be a small faction of liberals who have spoken up about abolishing ICE, and Trump took advantage of that sentiment by blowing it out of proportion repeatedly using it as an example of an irrational liberal voter. The truth is, most Americans are rather moderate about immigration, neither wanting a wall that likely wouldn’t be effective nor wanting open borders that would infringe on our national security.

However, ignoring the problem or grossly exaggerating it, doesn’t solve anything. Furthermore, lying about the facts does nothing to neutralize America’s security threats, which are at the heart of our country’s immigration fears. In fact, it is almost certain that distorting the truth creates more harm than good, and only provides fodder to frustrated people who are displaced and disenfranchised and are looking for something to blame. However, Trump will continue to exaggerate and distort the facts surrounding immigration in America, as it has proven to be an effective campaign strategy and it is highly motivating to certain voters.