Locals tackle family separation issue

The White House's "zero tolerance" immigration policy and separation of children from adults accused of illegally crossing the border has resulted in widespread reaction. The Press asked local residents in downtown Coeur d'Alene on Monday afternoon what they think of the U.S. government separating undocumented immigrant children from their families and placing them in government facilities.

I'm really torn about it. I believe changes do need to be made, and it starts with the way a Green Card is achieved. I've talked to quite a few people, and it's not an easy process. It's almost like we don't want them to come here so we're making it harder. I don't believe the children should be separated at all, but there are laws in place that must be followed. It's out of my hands, but I believe something needs to be done.

— Destiny Johnson,

Coeur d'Alene

Anybody who comes from Mexico should be given the chance to become legal, but they need to work, too. The situation with the families is (expletive) up. Give them a chance to learn the language and get a Green Card legally, then I'm OK with it. Look at how many more people China has than us.

— Richard Brown,

Coeur d'Alene

I don't believe the children should be separated. Families are the most important foundation for kids. I haven't been a big fan of the federal government. No one should be able to take the Constitution and manipulate it and go through loopholes. Families should fight to the finish, but that's probably just my motherly instinct coming out. I do believe that we need to understand what can be done to make things better.

— Willow Delaney,

Coeur d'Alene

I take Trump's side. I don't believe the objective is to separate families. The Democrats have blown this all out of proportion and are undermining what is being done. With that said, the families need to stay together.

— Allen Johnson, Coeur d'Alene

I'm really up in the air about it. I don't like it, but they also put themselves in that position. If it puts your child in danger, then don't do it. Wait until something better is found. Certainly everyone should be screened at the border. I'm going to pray about it and see what God thinks. He is in charge.

— Natalie Fister, Coeur d'Alene

I think it’s wrong. It’s inhumane and sad. It’s really messed up and I can’t imagine being a kid without your parents.

— Hope Foster,

Coeur d’Alene

•••

Compiled by BRIAN WALKER/Press