Immigration Reform and Border Security

The Senate's version of immigration reform would create the most militarized border "since the fall of the Berlin Wall," according to Senator John McCain. But mayors, sheriffs and others who live on the border say they don't need more helicopters, drones, watchtowers — or a doubling of the Border Patrol. Would $46 billion be wasted to satisfy opponents of a "path to citizenship" who don't understand the realities of life on the border? Today's Washington Post reports that a majority of Americans support "a path to citizenship" for undocumented workers. They also support border security, though enthusiasm drops off when those polled learn the cost. Are there alternatives that would provide security for less money, at the same time enhancing the economies of both the US and Mexico?