Candy, the term "illegal" is used ultra-pejoratively by MAGA. The term is used to conflate illegal entry with other "illegal" things like rape and murder. Surely you remember all the Trump barf about it in 2016 and afterward?
I'm aware of the stats regarding the various immigrant groups/classifications. It amazes me how blithely MAGA ignores them and goes on bleating and bleating about the mortal threat "illegals" cause.
The feigned concern about violators of the law is especially risible when one considers that MAGA's orange god is a multiple convicted felon. That concern, of course, is exactly like the Nazis' "concern" about the Jews. Scapegoating and deflecting.
I favor cutting the Gordian knot. North America should be like the EU. No border controls at all. Free passage back and forth. One must obtain permits for prolonged residency. One can work anywhere with the proper documentation, whether a citizen or not. NO trade barriers, and no stupid fucking tariffs. Maybe even a common currency.
It works for Europe!