In Martin Anderson’s book “Revolution,” he recounts a pivotal moment in the Reagan administration regarding illegal immigration. In 1981, the Task Force on Immigration and Refugee Policy met at the White House to discuss proposed sanctions on employers hiring illegal aliens and the implementation of a national ID card. Anderson, a key figure in the administration, was present at the meeting.
During the meeting, Attorney General William French Smith presented his proposal for the national ID card, which would serve as a tool for identifying legal and illegal residents. Anderson was alarmed by the implications of such a system, likening it to a hallmark of a totalitarian state. He believed that the government’s ability to track individuals’ movements and activities through a national ID card posed a threat to personal freedoms.
As Smith’s proposal gained traction among cabinet members, Anderson made a bold move to voice his opposition. Despite the risks of speaking out, Anderson raised his hand and suggested an alternative approach that he deemed more cost-effective and secure. He proposed tattooing identification numbers on individuals’ arms as a lightweight, counterfeit-proof, and waterproof solution.
The shocking suggestion prompted a strong reaction from the attendees, with Interior Secretary James Watt drawing parallels to the Biblical concept of the mark of the Beast. President Reagan, familiar with the reference from the Book of Revelation, lightened the mood by humorously suggesting branding all babies instead.
Reagan’s playful response effectively quashed the idea of national ID cards for the time being. The meeting ended without further discussion on the controversial topic, marking a significant victory for Anderson and his stance against government overreach.
The anecdote serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between security measures and individual liberties in the realm of immigration policy. Anderson’s bold intervention highlights the importance of challenging potentially invasive government initiatives and advocating for alternative solutions that uphold fundamental rights and values.
