Legal immigrants deserve respect for following the laws of our nation and completing the process. This is not an extreme concept. It is a matter of simply protecting our nation's sovereignty and knowing who is coming into our nation.

In this quote, Mercedes Schlapp emphasizes the importance of recognizing and respecting legal immigrants for following the established laws and successfully completing the immigration process. She argues that these individuals should be acknowledged for their commitment to abiding by the rules set forth by the nation, which reflects a sense of order and respect for the country's systems. Schlapp suggests that respecting legal immigrants is not an extreme or controversial stance but a reasonable expectation in maintaining a fair and organized immigration system.

Schlapp ties the concept of respecting legal immigrants to the broader idea of protecting national sovereignty. By ensuring that immigrants follow legal procedures, the nation can maintain control over its borders and know who is coming into the country. This underscores the importance of having clear systems in place to regulate immigration, allowing for better security and the protection of the country's interests.

Her statement also highlights the tension between legal and illegal immigration, suggesting that respecting the law and adhering to immigration processes is crucial for preserving national security and social order. Schlapp’s perspective positions this approach as fundamental to upholding the integrity of the nation’s immigration system and ensuring that those who enter the country do so legally and with respect for its sovereignty.

Ultimately, Schlapp’s quote advocates for a balanced approach to immigration—one that honors the legal pathways while also prioritizing the protection of the nation’s borders and sovereignty. It reflects a belief in the importance of structured immigration processes and the need to maintain order and security while recognizing the contributions of those who follow the law.