Any constructive discussion of immigration issues must rely on facts, not just feelings. Unfortunately, some of the loudest voices in this debate frequently cite a number with no basis in reality, claiming 30 million illegal immigrants in the United States. The actual number, according to all credible sources, is 11 million. It would be impossible to hide nearly 20 million people from ruthless politicians–Democrats would find the missing illegals to build their own power with more federal funds and more representation in Congress.

Under the Constitution, the House is apportioned based on the “whole number of persons” in a district, not limited to citizens or legal residents. Democrats have every reason to overestimate the number of illegals, not underestimate them. Twenty million more undocumented immigrants works out to 25 seats in the House of Representatives. No working politician, liberal or conservative, would ever ignore or obscure such significant numbers.