The Changes in Population
The changes in population in the state of Texas are demonstrable by a consideration of documented demographics from census and population estimations provided by the US census bureau.
Population Estimates of 2016
The population estimates of 2016 show that the majority of residents in Texas are whites, numbering about 11.8 million. Hispanics are the second most populous group with a total of approximately 10.8 million. Blacks and Asians constitute a much lesser number respectively.
Population Growth Rates
However, the changes in population are seen once the recent numbers are compared to previous ones, and population growth rates are calculated. Although the state is still predominantly white, the Hispanic population has consistently recorded the highest growth rate since the 2010 census, having grown by about 15 % from 2010 to 2016. Comparatively, the white population increased by only 3%. Other ethnic groups also continue to record rapid growth rates with the highest being that of Asians which grew by more than 35% in the six-year period. One thing that is worth noting is that the state leads all others in the growth of the Hispanic in the country and betters even those with huge Hispanic populations. (Ura)
The Changing Demographics and Political Implications
The changing demographics in Texas is likely to have profound political implications which although subtly evident presently, would become apparent in the long-run. Republicans who have had a substantial grip in the state in the last two decades or so have been losing ground in the last couple of years. The Democrats on the other side have been the beneficiaries owing to the rapidly growing Hispanic population whose voting patterns are mainly pro-Democratic. The Republicans, however, demonstrate much effort in trying to win as much of the Hispanic vote as possible. (Horsley) Therefore, the political landscape of Texas is likely to be shaped by the dynamics of population growth and change.
Immigration and Its Implications
While I acknowledge Patrick's concerns and desire to protect the state of Texas from vices that may be associated with illegal immigration, I am inclined to agree with Julian Castro that the immigrants should be provided with a path to citizenship. Although the immigrants are illegal, there are some like children of illegal immigrants who cannot be entirely faulted for their illegal status. Additionally, the immigrants also provide a significant contribution to the economy and the society in the state. Furthermore, a reflection on the US' history establishes that indeed the country was founded and has been developed by people who were not natives but rather emigrated into the country, mainly from Europe. Therefore, I believe that given a chance even the illegal immigrants would bear positive and significant benefits to the state and the nation at large.
Economic Benefits of Immigration
One advantage that illegal immigrants bring to the economy of Texas and the country is the provision of labor. Although much of labor provided by immigrants are unskilled, they still possess some level of specialization which benefits the state's and the country's economy. Another economic benefit accrued from immigration is the provision of a market for goods and services. The immigrants contribute towards the economy by consuming products produced within the state and the country. Additionally, immigrants pay taxes to the government in different terms. Even in Texas where there is no state income tax, the government still manages to collect a substantial revenue from immigrants and is only second to California in that respect. (Brannon and Albright)
Economic Disadvantages of Immigration
A disadvantage of illegal immigration on the economy is the increased consumption of public resources. Most of the immigrants are poor when compared to natives and have worse living conditions. Consequently, a significant proportion of people who depend on welfare consists of immigrants. More government resources are therefore used up in providing extra services, a scenario that puts pressure on the economy. Another economic disadvantage that is associated with illegal immigration is the natives' loss of jobs to the immigrants especially for unskilled labor since the undocumented immigrants work for much lower pays. (Brannon and Albright)
Effective Handling of Immigration
The issue of illegal immigration need not be viewed with only the two alternatives of either deportation or amnesty. Other options exist through which the matter can be handled efficiently to ensure the best results. One such option is the allowance and creation of an avenue whereby an illegal immigrant can obtain citizenship upon fulfillment of specific legal requirements. Such a vetting process would ensure that the state and the country continue to enjoy the benefits that may accrue from immigration while at the same time averting addressing its challenges.
Proactive Policy-making in Texas
The state of Texas needs to be proactive and at the forefront of policy-making concerning immigration. By its demographic dynamics, the state stands to either benefit immensely from sound policy or suffer to the same magnitude if there are poor policies. One way in which the state can formulate policy is through state legislation on various pertinent immigration issues. Additionally, the executive leadership headed by the governor ought to engage the citizens in defining and directing public opinion and contribution towards policy making.
Works Cited
Brannon, Ike, and Logan Albright. Immigration’s Impact on the Texas Economy. Texas Public Policy Foundation, 2016. Accessed 8 Mar. 2018.
Horsley, Scott. "Big Growth Could Shake Up Texas' Old Political Equation." NPR.org, 30 June 2013, www.npr.org/sections/itsallpolitics/2013/07/01/196724707/big-growth-could-shake-up-texas-old-political-equation. Accessed 8 Mar. 2017.
Ura, Alexa. "Texas Hispanics Behind Half of State's Growth Since 2010." The Texas Tribune, 22 June 2017, www.texastribune.org/2017/06/22/texas-hispanics-behind-half-states-growth-2010/.
