Have you ever noticed how the term “papers” is often used when the actual reference should be “identification?” This is because it’s nearly impossible to navigate today’s world without some form of government-issued identification, such as a driver’s license or state ID card. While “identification” might seem harmless, “papers” brings to mind an image of a stern officer in a sharp uniform demanding, “Papiere, bitte.”

Using this term can be misleading, and during a recent “Meet the Press” segment, host Kristen Welker attempted to challenge the president with the “papers” argument. However, he adeptly redirected the discussion to focus on more relevant issues.

When asked, “Should lawful residents of this country start carrying paperwork with them when they leave their homes?” the president replied, “I don’t think that’ll be necessary — but what you’re not saying is that many people have been killed, maimed, badly hurt by illegal immigrants.” pic.twitter.com/RMQ8PRWLHc

— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) May 4, 2025

Kristen Welker asked: 

The president replied:

That’s the real argument to be made; for four years, we have seen unchecked illegal immigration. Millions have poured in, mostly unvetted, unverified, and unknown, and Americans are having to deal with the influx. And, yes, in some cases, these illegal aliens are deadly criminals – just ask the families of Rachel Morin, Jocelyn Nungaray, and Lakin Riley. There are more goblins out there like the ones that murdered Rachel Morin, Jocelyn Nungaray and Lakin Riley – and no, I don’t think we can repeat their names too much – and in most of their cases, we don’t know where these goblins are, what they are doing, or what they may be planning.

Illegal immigrants aren’t just coming in from Latin America, either. There are millions from other parts of the world, including places like Iran and China. This situation packs the possibility of disaster, and we can’t get control of it fast enough. 

We should also always remember that this situation is due to the Charlie Foxtrot that was the Biden administration.

President Trump was right to direct this conversation back on topic. But to “circle back” (hah) on Kristen Welker’s question: What the heck is wrong with expecting people to carry some ID?