Arnold Schwarzenegger An Immigrant Writes Rhetorical Analysis

Critical Response Essay In the article “An Immigrant Writes” Arnold Schwarzenegger argues, “America can have an immigration policy that strengthens and secures our borders while being sympathetic to immigrants” (26). By addressing opposing arguments, through the use of pathos, ethos, and logos and providing strong evidence, Mr. Schwarzenegger creates a convincing argument to support his stance on immigration. In the first paragraphs, Mr. Schwarzenegger effectively addresses talk of “false choices” (26). He says, “We are told that in a free society it's not possible to have border security. We are advised that in order to secure the borders, we must deport 12 million people” (Schwarzenegger 26). He refutes these claims by citing evidence of the cost of deportation as well as stating that the immigration strategy will collapse without both compassion for the immigrants and control of the border (Schwarzenegger 26). By acknowledging the opposing side and rejecting it, he makes his own argument stronger. Mr. Schwarzenegger also addresses both parties in Congress and gains their respect by supporting them and their discussion (26).

Schwarzenegger’s first argument is that congress needs to take security seriously in order to create a stronger border (26). To persuade his audience he uses pathos, referring to 9/11 to appeal to emotions associated with it, and therefore stresses the value of better equipment and resources, which would result from a stronger border (Schwarzenegger 26). He says, “The presence of the citizens’ groups along our border is a reminder of the federal government’s failure to do its job. Government officials, not private citizens, are responsible for our borders. They need to do it right and to do it right now” (Schwarzenegger