Stephen Colbert explains why Trump is wrong that America is 'full'

Stephen Colbert sings about immigration
(Image credit: Screenshot/YouTube/The Late Show)

President Trump is "upset with Homeland Security, but his real problem, as usual, is with the law," Stephen Colbert said on Monday's Late Show. Legally, anyone facing persecution can seek asylum at the U.S. border. "But here's the thing: The more Trump complains about illegal immigrants, the worse the problem gets," he said. "Some experts say migrants are choosing to make the crossing now because they fear that Trump's tough policies will make it harder to get across later."

Frustrated that his policies aren't working, Trump tweeted out a threat and warning on Sunday night, claiming "Our Country is FULL!" Colbert read the tweets, and he disagreed. "First off, I don't think our country is full — I mean, did you see his inauguration crowd?" he joked. "Look at all that empty space — you could fit, like, three Mexicos in there." In a speech to the Republican Jewish Coalition on Saturday, "Trump explained why he wants to turn away desperate migrants fleeing for their lives," Colbert said, playing part of the speech. "Again, that's the Republican Jewish Coalition applauding turning away immigrants fleeing persecution. #AlwaysForget."

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Peter Weber, The Week US

Peter has worked as a news and culture writer and editor at The Week since the site's launch in 2008. He covers politics, world affairs, religion and cultural currents. His journalism career began as a copy editor at a financial newswire and has included editorial positions at The New York Times Magazine, Facts on File, and Oregon State University.