describe what you believe the dominant political tendency has been in French and U.S. immigration policy?

Answer 1

Very interesting topic

Both countries France and US had doors wide open in the last few decades allowing millions of immigrants mostly from poorer countries south, respectively North Africa and Mexico

Due to overwhelming influx for the society (schools, banlieues...) and average citizen to handle, in recent years both countries express a sentiment to regulate and crackdown. Jean Marie Le Pen has been the symbol of France's strong anti-immigration views for decades, gaining votes each time, especially since the 2005 riots, but Sarkozy was elected president in mid 2007, with a softer yet tough immigration policy. Sarkozy promises thousands of expulsions per year and tough (Frenchmen call them normal) rules to make sure applicants arer motivated and integrate well. Such rules do not exist yet in America but are currently being discussed by US govt. America is also trying to decide what to do with its 12M illegals (attrition exmigration, forced deporation, amnesty). America is likely to follow France's wake up call and toughening, especially if Tancredo becomes America's pdt for 2008
There has also been also some toughening on the American side since 911, less on the French side because terrorists have not attacked Paris
As a summary both countries are recently trying to regulate and crackdown

Answer 2

Willful stupidity?

Answer 3

Liberalism, but France is wising up.