Earlier quoted context omitted.
> what methods are you suggesting we use to keep our immigrant population tracked and controlled? You can't track and control only immigrants. Any such system would include tracking and controls of citizens, simply in order to sort them into the "not immigrant" category. Hence all the "papers please". (Not to mention the false positive problem!)
Surprise, you’re already tracked in a dozen harmless ways that enable modern life: drivers license, Social Security number, birth certificate, etc; even before you get into quasi-public records like credit reporting, bank accounts, and insurance. Acting like showing ID to an immigration official is some unprecedented intrusion is absurd. Fly domestically, shop at Costco, or buy a 6 pack of beer and you’ll end up show…
"Show me your papers" is not something I think most Americans think is acceptable to be asked of them.