Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton made a significant change this week by rescinding a 2001 legal opinion from then-Attorney General John Cornyn. This ruling had allowed individuals without a Social Security number to obtain occupational licenses through affidavits. By reversing this long-standing policy, Paxton aims to ensure that only lawful residents can hold such licenses. His new directive comes as part of a broader effort to safeguard Texas jobs and uphold the integrity of the workforce.
Paxton’s stance is clear. He stated, “Illegal aliens who don’t belong in this country should not be rewarded for their criminal actions by receiving occupational licenses that allow them to undercut the wages of American citizens.” This statement underscores his commitment to combat what he terms the “invasion” of illegal immigration, which he believes threatens the livelihoods of Texas residents.
The backlash that Cornyn faces for his past opinion reveals the shifting attitudes within the Republican landscape in Texas. Critics have rallied behind Paxton’s decision, framing it as a necessary corrective to what they see as Cornyn’s failure to protect American workers. A viral post highlighted this sentiment, labeling Cornyn a “RINO” for enabling illegal immigrants to access occupational licenses, with calls for him to “retire” echoing throughout social media.
In his 2001 opinion, Cornyn stated that not having a Social Security number should not bar individuals from obtaining a driver’s license, revealing a more lenient approach towards licensing for undocumented immigrants. His comments have now returned to haunt him as Paxton firmly clamps down on such practices, declaring, “I have rescinded John Cornyn’s legal opinion that put Texans last by rolling out the red carpet for the invasion of our state.”
Paxton’s move also seeks to enforce Governor Greg Abbott’s regulations requiring English proficiency for commercial truck drivers. In a statement, he reinforced his commitment to maintaining safety on Texas roads, ensuring that licensing practices align with the state’s laws and standards. He remarked that “illegals must be rounded up and deported instead of being given licenses to steal opportunities from Americans.”
The swift reaction to Paxton’s announcement was largely positive among his supporters. Comments flooded in, praising him for taking a firm stand where Cornyn faltered. One reaction called him an “excellent AG” who is well positioned to challenge Cornyn in the upcoming Republican primary.
Through this development, Paxton solidifies his authority and positions himself as a defender of traditional values against perceived threats from illegal immigration. His decision is backed by the idea that protecting American workers should take precedence. The division between him and Cornyn has become palpable, signaling a potential shift in the dynamics of Texas Republican politics as they enter the primaries.
As the narrative develops, both men will face the challenge of winning over voters who are increasingly vocal about their expectations regarding immigration and job security. The stakes are high in Texas, and Paxton’s bold action could very well reshape the political landscape leading up to the election.
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