During lunch last week, I mentioned to a Mexican friend that President Andres Lopez-Obrador is supporting President Trump by stopping the caravans from coming in.
He said yes and no. Let me explain what he is saying.
Yes, it is true that the U.S. warned Mexico about people showing up at the border in the infamous caravans that made the front pages months ago. It sure looks like Mexico has become the immigration enforcer, or something like that.
My friend also said no. In other words he feels that President Lopez-Obrador is reacting to local pressures about illegal immigration.
Let me translate: They don’t want chaotic caravans either.
Last summer, Reforma published a poll about Mexican attitudes about caravans.
It concluded this:
The poll says that 55 percent of respondents favor deportation, while 33 percent are for granting temporary asylum to the Central Americans, and only 7 percent would give them legal residence in Mexico.Likewise, 64 percent say migrants are a burden and cost Mexican citizens jobs, while 20 percent said they contribute to the country with their work and talent.
Yes, President Trump has taken a tough stance on illegal immigration. He should get credit for that.
At the same time, Mexico is doing its share and it has more to do with them and us.
PS: You can listen to my show (Canto Talk) and follow me on Twitter.