It seems there is no sad occurrence that some individual or organization will not try sooner or later to blame on the United States, no matter how absurd that blame may be.
Various “human rights” groups are now blaming America for a higher-than-normal number of deaths among illegal aliens trying to cross into this country from Mexico. They say beefed-up border patrols have forced illegal aliens to take longer routes in their quest to enter U.S. territory. With unusually low temperatures and wet weather in border regions this winter, more illegal border crossers have died of hypothermia and exposure.
It is reasonable that there is humanitarian concern when anyone perishes under any circumstances. But we should not condone the illegal acts of those who try to cross our border without permission.
Most are coming here for economic opportunity, not to deliver drugs or engage in violence, but many do it illegally. When they willingly embark on such a dangerous journey, they are taking their lives into their own hands. Our efforts to protect our borders cannot justly be blamed if some of those who make the journey die along the way.
Meanwhile, anyone who is captured while trying to enter the United States in violation of our laws should be treated humanely but should be sent back promptly.