Illegal immigration splits candidates in 9th District

A Democratic challenger in the 9th Congressional District primary wants to stop illegal immigration, while the incumbent supports sweeping immigration reform.

Chicago lawyer John Nocita is challenging Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky on Feb. 5 for the chance to represent the district, which includes parts of Des Plaines and Rosemont.

Nocita wants to prevent illegal immigration and opposes extending any type of amnesty.

"We need to stop the flow of illegal immigration, and figure out a way to make them legal and fit them into our system of life," Nocita said.

He didn't offer a specific plan.

Schakowsky supports changes to help put immigrants on the path to citizenship.

If immigrants became citizens, wages would be higher since illegal immigration is driving down pay, she said.

"If you want real security in this country -- both economic and national security -- then we have to bring these people out of the shadows," Schakowsky said.

She also supports better border security and better relations with Mexico.

Schakowsky supports the so-called DREAM Act, which would provide high school students who are in the United States illegally who wish to attend college or serve in the armed forces with financial loans.