A safety net for illegal aliens? Provided by whom - the American taxpayer? But many of them are hurting too - unemployed, struggling to make mortgage payments and soon to be burdened by the hyperinflation which will result from massive increases in federal spending.

But The New York Times believes we have a responsibility for those who came here illegally, who exacerbated our crime and drug problems, and who (in better times) took the jobs of Americans.

When they crossed the border illegally, did we promise that there would always be jobs for them? Did we promise to provide them with unemployment insurance, food stamps and health care? The very notion is an affront to reason.

If anyone's responsible for the present plight of the "day laborers," it's The New York Times and other proponents of illegal immigration.